TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a tool in Michigan schools for both students and teachers, with districts like Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) and others exploring ways to integrate AI into classrooms.

TCAPS is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into education, balancing its potential benefits with privacy and ethical concerns. Executive Director of Technology Evan OBranovic emphasized AI’s rapid evolution in an interview with the Traverse City Ticker recently, explaining the difference between generative AI, which creates content, and predictive AI, which forecasts outcomes. He explained they are looking at teaching students how to use AI responsibly, saying, “It’s something that we’re embracing and trying to envelop where it makes sense within our curriculum and in our environment.”

TCAPS navigates the AI revolution.

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Students in Traverse City commonly use AI tools like ChatGPT for brainstorming, while teachers explore AI for lesson planning and data analysis. The district promotes tools like Google Gemini, which ensures student data remains protected, and is focused on teaching responsible AI use rather than banning it.

Chief Academic Officer Jessie Houghton highlighted AI’s role in enhancing learning such as providing tutoring support, simplifying complex concepts, and making education more accessible. However, educators are also adapting to mitigate cheating risks and maintain human connections in teaching.

Educators stress that AI should remain a supplemental tool rather than a substitute for human interaction. While AI can analyze student progress and suggest learning strategies, it lacks the emotional intelligence and adaptability of a teacher who understands each student’s unique challenges.

AI in the classroom: a helping hand, not a replacement.

The “80/20 rule” in education guides AI implementation which amounts to automating 80% of routine tasks to allow teachers to focus on personalized instruction. Proponents of AI in education emphasize its potential to support, not replace, teachers. AI-powered tools can help with grading, generate lesson plans, and provide real-time feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on instruction and mentoring.

While some educators remain skeptical about AI’s effectiveness, TCAPS Superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner stressed that AI literacy is now essential for students’ college and career readiness saying, “One of our goals for every graduate we have go across that stage is to be career and college ready,” he said. “I do believe (AI) is now a component to truly be career and college ready you’re going to have to be able to navigate and use.”

Balancing innovation and integrity.

The use of AI also raises concerns about academic integrity. With AI chatbots capable of generating essays and solving complex problems, schools must establish clear guidelines on responsible AI usage. Educators are working to develop policies that promote ethical use while still allowing students to leverage AI as a learning aid.

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Additionally, there are concerns about the overreliance on technology. While AI can provide valuable insights, excessive dependence on automated tools may reduce critical thinking skills and problem- solving abilities in students.

Looking ahead.

Michigan schools are in the early stages of integrating AI into classrooms, with an emphasis on experimentation and oversight. The challenge will be striking a balance – harnessing AI’s potential to improve learning while ensuring that students continue to receive the guidance and personal connection that only a teacher can provide.