Welcome Session

Welcome / Interactive Thinking and Goal Setting

Presenter: Sara Zuckerman, Acera School

Wifi: Acera Guest

Password: HTaussig2122 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming many facets of our society, and the field of education is no exception. In K12 settings, AI tools offer significant promise in creating more personalized and engaging learning experiences. By analyzing real-time data, AI systems can tailor instruction to meet individual student needs, helping educators target struggling learners while accelerating those ready for new challenges. Adaptive learning platforms can efficiently reinforce concepts, freeing up teachers to focus on higher-level guidance and support. Beyond this, AI-driven tutoring systems have the potential to provide one-on-one assistance—a valuable resource for English Language Learners (ELL) and special education students who benefit from differentiated pacing and reinforcement.

Despite these exciting opportunities, the use of AI in K12 education also introduces critical challenges that cannot be overlooked. For instance, questions of authorship arise when AI tools generate text or design project outlines, potentially eroding students’ writing and reading abilities by limiting the need for their own creative and analytical inputs. If students excessively rely on AI for problem-solving, they risk underdeveloping essential critical thinking skills that are vital for real-world applications and lifelong learning. Moreover, educators must remain vigilant about over-reliance on AI-driven adaptive systems that may inadvertently reduce students’ exposure to collaborative learning and human interaction—both key components of holistic educational development.

In this workshop, we will explore the core principles behind AI, review current classroom applications, and discuss best practices for harnessing AI’s potential while mitigating its pitfalls. Our goal is to empower K12 teachers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to effectively integrate AI into their instruction, fostering an environment where technology enriches—not replaces—meaningful engagement and skill-building. Join us as we delve into the evolving landscape of AI in education, examining both the promise it holds and the challenges it presents for today’s classrooms.

(written by Chat GPT)