Parent's Guide to Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is like a very smart computer helper that can learn and solve problems. Just as students learn from their teachers and experiences, AI systems learn from the information we give them. They can help us with many tasks, from suggesting what movie to watch next to helping scientists make important discoveries.

Think of AI as a digital student that gets better at tasks through practice. For example:

• When you ask your phone to set a reminder, AI helps understand your words

• When a video game character responds to your actions, that's AI making decisions

• When a website recommends books you might like based on what you've read before, AI is helping make those suggestions

While AI can do amazing things, it's important to remember that it's a tool created by humans to help make our lives easier. It doesn't think exactly like people do, and it needs careful guidance from human experts to work properly.

At our school district, we believe in teaching students about AI so they can understand this technology that is becoming more common in our daily lives. We want our students to learn how to use AI tools responsibly while developing their own critical thinking and creativity.

Boosting Learning

AI can personalize the learning experience, tailoring content and pacing to individual student needs. This helps students learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they need more support. AI-powered tutoring systems can provide immediate feedback and guidance, leading to improved understanding and knowledge retention.  

Enhancing Creativity

AI tools can spark creativity by providing students with new ways to express themselves and explore ideas. AI can assist in creating art, music, and writing, encouraging experimentation and innovation.   

Improving Efficiency

AI can automate repetitive tasks for teachers, freeing up more time for personalized instruction and student interaction. AI can also help with grading, lesson planning, and administrative tasks, allowing teachers to focus on what they do best: teaching.   

Thought Partner & Brainstorming Aid

AI can act as a "thought partner" for students, helping them explore complex concepts and develop critical thinking skills. AI can also facilitate brainstorming sessions, generating ideas and prompting students to think outside the box.   

Making Information Accessible

AI can make learning more accessible for students with disabilities. AI-powered tools can provide text-to-speech, translation, and visual aids, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. 

Bias

AI systems are trained on data, and if that data reflects existing biases, the AI will likely perpetuate them. This can lead to unfair or discriminatory outcomes.   

Privacy

AI often collects and analyzes vast amounts of personal data, raising concerns about how this information is used and protected.   

Misinformation

AI can be used to create convincing but false content, including fake videos and news articles. This can make it difficult to distinguish fact from fiction.   

Outdated/Incorrect Information

AI models are not always up-to-date, and may provide inaccurate or outdated information. It's crucial to double-check information, especially for critical tasks.

Inappropriate Content

AI can sometimes generate content that is violent, sexually suggestive, or otherwise harmful. Parental controls and open communication are essential.   

Overdependence/Cheating

AI tools can make it tempting for students to take shortcuts in their learning. Encourage healthy technology use and emphasize the importance of original thought and effort.

The best way to learn and educate your child on AI is to experience AI together.  PGCPS encourages families to : 

• Stay informed about the AI tools their child is using.
• Discuss AI with their child.
• Encourage responsible use of AI.
• Balance technology use with other activities.
• Provide a supportive learning environment.
• Communicate with teachers.

Suggestions for family interaction with AI tools include:

Setting Bedtime Routines

• Use a tool like ChatGPT to create a nightime  story as a family.
• Set a designated time limit and play a game asking questions and checking answers.

Building skills and learning

• Ask the AI tool to create a study guide to study with your student
• Ask AI to create riddles or puzzles to see who in the family can solve the fastest or most creatively.

Exploring creativity and making new things

• Play 20 questions, race the computer
• Generate brand new characters for storytelling.

Supporting homework and independent education

• Use chatbots to help build background knowledge on topics.
• Ask a chatbot to assist and specifically ask for guidance without giving the final answer.