ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EDUCATION
| 1. WHEREAS, |
Use of artificial intelligence tools can enhance learning accessibility for students with differing learning needs (e.g., special education students and English language learners) and diverse learning preferences; and |
| 2. WHEREAS, |
Artificial intelligence tools can reduce the administrative burden on teachers, automating routine tasks and freeing up time to engage with students; and |
| 3. WHEREAS, |
Proficiency with the technical and ethical application of artificial intelligence is becoming a fundamental skillset students need for academic and professional success; and |
| 4. WHEREAS, |
School districts need informed guidance on technology safeguards and risks due to the rapid innovation and progress of artificial intelligence; and |
| 5. WHEREAS, |
The adoption of artificial intelligence technology may have a negative impact on environmental sustainability goals; and |
| 6. WHEREAS, |
The objectives of this resolution are in alignment with the needs of students, teachers, and school districts nationwide striving to keep up with the challenges, opportunities, and impacts of artificial intelligence, now therefore be it |
| 1.RESOLVED, |
That the California State PTA advocate for allocation of resources to encourage school districts’ equitable adoption of artificial intelligence tools to meet the diverse needs of all learners; and be it further |
| 2. RESOLVED, |
That the California State PTA and its constituent organizations promote incorporation of artificial intelligence literacy and ethics into teacher preparation and professional development standards and requirements, helping ensure artificial intelligence remains a tool to assist, rather than replace, certified human educators in the classroom; and be it further |
| 3. RESOLVED, |
That the California State PTA encourage support of reasonable access to hardware, software, platforms, and high-speed internet resources for use of artificial intelligence tools in schools; and be it further |
| 4. RESOLVED, |
That the California State PTA and its constituent organizations advocate for state or federal legislation or policy to provide regular artificial intelligence safety and risk assessments to school districts; and be it further |
| 5. RESOLVED, |
That the California State PTA and its constituent organizations encourage policies and practices that help ensure environmental sustainability with artificial intelligence technology adoption; and |
| 6. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED |
That this resolution be submitted to the National PTA for consideration. |
BACKGROUND SUMMARY
Many TK-12 public school students are inherently early adopters of emerging technology. Like smartphones in schools, rapid adoption by students of artificial intelligence in schools without policies, lessons, and pedagogical support will likely lead to adverse learning outcomes.
Today, artificial intelligence is advancing at a historically fast pace. New tools and capabilities offer teachers and students many opportunities and challenges. For example, opportunities include the enhancement of research and development skills in various subjects, but serious challenges exist, such as the extreme ease with which artificial intelligence tools can aid plagiarism. Furthermore, reckless use of tools can exacerbate the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, deepfakes, and more.
California-based companies are leading the advancement of artificial intelligence research and breakthroughs. Artificial intelligence technology is advancing rapidly. Globally, artificial intelligence legislation, regulations, and standards are being implemented. In the U.S., at the federal and state levels, laws and “guardrails” are being actively debated. Meanwhile, many industries are being transformed by artificial intelligence. Those developments are changing the job market and economy, permanently.
We cannot wait any longer. Failing to provide academic policies, guidelines, and resources to support the use and learning of artificial intelligence in public schools will likely widen the digital learning divide, cause an increase in cheating in public school classrooms, and adversely impact students’ job readiness. It is important, therefore, that school districts adopt a comprehensive, long-range education plan that will provide an equal opportunity to education with access to artificial intelligence technologies for all students.