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Educating in the age of artificial intelligence

March 26, 2025 • Classroom Tips / Featured • 3 minutes to read

March 26, 2025 Classroom Tips / Featured 3 minutes to read

By the NJEA Technology Committee

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly conversational agents such as ChatGPT, presents exciting opportunities and significant ethical considerations for educators. As classrooms become increasingly enriched by AI tools, teachers face the important task of responsibly navigating the implications of using these technologies.

This article explores the ethical dimensions of leveraging AI and ChatGPT in educational settings, examining the responsibilities of educators to ensure the equitable, transparent and effective use of these innovative tools. By fostering a critical understanding of AI’s capabilities and limitations, educators can enhance learning experiences while upholding ethical standards that prioritize student well-being and academic integrity. Properly used, AI can be one more tool to engage the “spark” that makes us human beings—our capacity for empathy, compassion and connection.

The promise of AI in education

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming a part of our personal lives and education. Tools such as ChatGPT, Magic School, Diffit, Curipod, Brisk, PerplexityAI, Quillbot, Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini are used by teachers, administrators and students. AI helps complete tasks efficiently, such as creating lesson plans, designing assessments aligned with New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS), developing personalized learning content, providing feedback, grading and writing emails.

AI also offers innovative ways for students to engage with content through virtual tutors, simulations and educational games. As AI becomes embedded in education, it is important to embrace this shift while safeguarding stakeholders’ interests.

Privacy and data security

One of the most pressing concerns about using AI in education is privacy. AI systems in education often rely on collecting large amounts of personal data from users including academic performance, behavioral patterns and demographic information. This data is used to make predictions and inform decision-making, but it also creates risks if not handled responsibly. As a result, it is critical to discuss with all stakeholders what is permitted and prohibited usage of any particular software.

AI has the potential to exacerbate existing inequalities in education if not implemented with equity in mind. Not all students have equal access to the technology required to take full advantage of AI-powered tools, especially in underfunded schools and rural areas. Disparities in access to technology can widen the digital divide, leaving some students behind while others benefit from cutting-edge learning tools.

To avoid this, it is essential to ensure that AI-driven educational solutions are accessible to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Schools must prioritize providing equitable access to technology, making sure every student has the tools to succeed. Additionally, AI developers must take care to design systems that are inclusive and culturally responsive, avoiding biases that may disadvantage certain groups of students.

Teacher autonomy and professional judgment

AI is a powerful tool, but it should never replace human educators. Teachers bring empathy, intuition and expertise that AI cannot replicate. AI should be a support tool, not a replacement, with educators maintaining their professional autonomy and judgment.

The ethical use of AI in education offers great promise but comes with responsibilities. Educators, policymakers and developers must collaborate to ensure AI complements human teaching and enhances education for all students, preparing them for a tech-driven future.