Greenville County Schools adopt first policy for use of AI in classrooms. Here are the details

Companies, governments, just about everyone it seems is looking at artificial intelligence and how it might help with efficiency.

Now comes Greenville County Schools, whose board this week approved a policy on how AI, as it’s called, will be used in classrooms.

Board member Angie Mosley said an ad hoc committee looked into policies in other districts but found most districts had yet to address the issue.

Calling AI “potentially valuable” in education, the board policy says it can support learning, independent research, critical thinking, and problem-solving but is in no way a substitute for teachers.

“Instead (it) will be used as a supplemental tool by teachers and instructional staff,” the new policy states. “Teachers will assist and monitor student use of AI in the classroom and during instruction, ensuring that it aligns with board policy and applicable law.”

The board called on the district administration to create procedures among schools, including the amount of use permitted in specific classes and assignments.

“Inappropriate use of AI, including plagiarism, will result in discipline,” the new policy states.

The schools are to monitor to ensure disclosure of student information does not occur and that it be used ethically to avoid discrimination.

AI use must be transparent and understandable to parents/guardians, the policy says.

“The committee also added language in the proposed revisions that emphasize that while District technology, such as Chromebooks, are beneficial tools for student learning, the use of District technology should not be excessive and not negatively affect other areas of student growth and personal development,” Mosley said in a memo to the board.

Training for staff must be available to support the effective use of AI in instruction, the policy said.