AI Inaccuracy when being Biased
One concern with using AI is its potential for inaccuracy due to bias. Stephen J. Bigelow, Alexander S. Gillis, and Mary K. Pratt explain that, “Machine learning bias, also known as algorithm bias or AI bias, is a phenomenon that occurs when an algorithm produces results that are systemically prejudiced due to erroneous assumptions in the machine learning process.”
As educators integrating AI in the classroom, it is crucial to critically evaluate AI outputs. Algorithms can harbor biases, and blindly accepting them can result in targeting rather than protecting students.
When using AI in the classroom, teachers can use it as a stepping stone and not the foundation of their classroom. AI serves as a valuable tool for teachers. It enhances their instructional methods and provides personalized learning experiences for students. However, it is not the foundation of education. The core of teaching lies in human one-on-one interaction, critical thinking, and the collaboration. AI can assist with data analysis, streamline administrative tasks, and offer supplementary resources. The essence of effective teaching remains rooted in human creativity, empathy, and the ability to inspire students.
Alignment of TCE Thresholds in an AI Classroom
Education is not neutral/Teaching is political:
AI tools can uncover biases in educational materials and processes. This discovery compels educators to critically evaluate their content rather than accept AI findings. For instance, AI can analyze textbooks to reveal disparities in the representation of various demographics. This data can highlight biases that may otherwise go unnoticed. In our school community, educators must adjust their materials to better reflect diverse perspectives. By doing so, they ensure a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. AI serves as a catalyst for these necessary changes, promoting fairness and accuracy in education. It is essential to use AI insights to identify and correct imbalances, fostering a more comprehensive educational experience for all students. Educators should leverage AI to enhance their teaching, not replace their judgment and expertise.
Curriculum is co-constructed:
AI tools can aid in co-constructing the curriculum by offering real-time feedback and fostering collaborative learning. Tools like CoPilot assist students with final PBL projects, while Grammarly supports their writing. This engagement helps students actively participate in their learning process. However, lessons should not be solely created by AI. As “10 AI Discussions Schools Should Have Now” states, “AI models can be inaccurate – and those inaccuracies can create misunderstandings that could follow our students their whole lives.” In our school, we must be mindful of AI biases and ensure human oversight in education. Balancing AI’s assistance with teacher expertise can prevent potential biases and inaccuracies, protecting students from long-term misunderstandings. AI should be a tool, not the foundation of our teaching practices, ensuring students receive accurate and fair education.
AI tool used in the Classroom
I recently taught my students about various brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. The goal was to help students connect their prior knowledge with real-world scenarios. They examined case studies and current research related to these conditions.
With my disease dictionaries already in class. I used the Magic School tool to create interactive lessons that explained these diseases, their symptoms, and their causes.
I organized a role-playing activity where students acted as “doctors” and used a disease dictionary to identify various brain diseases. Magic School helped me create a script for students to use for the students and question maps. The maps allowed the doctors to ask the right questions based on the patients answers.
After the doctor order scans, I gave them brain scans specific to each disease for diagnosis. This was fun watching them figure out their results from the ordered scans.
Overall, the strategy was successful in engaging students, but I faced challenges in ensuring everyone participated equally. Next time, I would implement clearer guidelines for participation and consider different assessment strategies to evaluate their understanding of brain diseases after using Magic School. This would help reinforce their learning and provide meaningful feedback.
Pros and Cons
Pro: AI can enhance learning experiences by providing personalized instruction. It analyzes students’ performance and adapts resources to meet their individual needs such as IEP, 504, or ELL. AI tools can also help collaboration among students, enabling them to work together on projects in real time. Additionally, AI can slowly teach students new skills just by correction.
Con: While AI offers many benefits, it also presents challenges. One major concern is the potential for bias in AI algorithms. This can lead to inaccuracies in assessment and feedback. Additionally, reliance on AI may reduce critical thinking skills, as students may depend too heavily on technology for answers. Finally, data privacy issues can arise, as sensitive student information is often collected and stored.
Check out this blog: https://www.nms.org/Resources/Newsroom/Blog/2024/August-2024/Pros-and-Cons-of-AI-in-the-Future-of-Education.aspx
Magic School to bring the material to life for students. This helps maintain students’ engagement and focus on the topics they are learning about, especially with a complex topic like brain disease. The next time you do this, having guidelines for clearer participation is a great step. I think that will help keep your students on track and get lost through the lesson. Have you thought about students working in small groups where everyone is required to participate? You could also incorporate peer evaluations based on their participation.
Yes, it is small groups and after verbally explaining directions and having it on the board, some still struggle. I can really time acting out/using scripts was new to them!
I love how you used the Magic School tool to bring complex topics like brain diseases to life through interactive role-play! It sounds like it really helped students engage with the material and think critically about diagnoses. Your plan to add clearer participation guidelines is a great idea for ensuring everyone stays involved. Have you thought about using peer assessments or self-reflections to further reinforce the material and boost engagement?
I really like the peer assessments – I really appreciate that recommendation! I do use class feedback and self-reflections a lot to constantly mold my assessments to the students. Thank you!