The use of ai: our guiding principles
The use of ai: our guiding principles
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Denton ISD is dedicated to providing the best educational experiences for our students. We recognize the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our classrooms. AI offers personalized learning opportunities that can enhance teaching and learning for all students. From adaptive learning platforms that tailor lessons to individual needs, to AI-driven analytics that help us understand and support student progress, these technologies are reshaping the educational landscape.
As we integrate AI into our schools, we remain committed to ethical considerations, data privacy, and the human touch that is essential in education. AI should augment, not replace, the irreplaceable role of educators. Together, we can leverage the potential of AI to enrich our students' learning experiences, prepare them for the future, and ensure that every learner has the opportunity to thrive.
While there are numerous educational AI software and tools available, the resources that can be found on this site are vetted and recommended by the Digital Learning team, to ensure alignment with our educational objectives and support for student success.
click on the buttons below to explore different ai resources
click on the buttons below to explore different ai resources
Explore LLMs, such as ChatGPT and Copilot, that can perform tasks, like answering questions, summarizing data, and translating languages.
Learn about different AI platforms that can save you time, serve as thinking partners, and assist in differentiating your lessons.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
what are some of the "best practices" when it comes to using ai?
what are some of the "best practices" when it comes to using ai?
Verify for Bias and Accuracy:
AI can sometimes generate content that may be biased or inaccurate. Always double-check before sharing out with others.
The 80-20 Principle:
Leverage AI to create an initial draft, but ensure you review, refine, and add context for the final 20%. Providing specific feedback will get you closer!
Your Judgment is Key:
Treat AI-generated content as a draft, not the finished product. Always comply with your school's guidelines during final review.
Understand the Limitations:
Some AI platforms don’t retrieve information from the internet and are only trained up to a certain date. Be cautious with recent or emerging topics, and ask platforms with internet access to provide links to sources.
Prioritize Privacy:
Avoid including personal student details like names or addresses.
what is denton isd's stance on ai's impact on Academic integrity & Plagiarism?
what is denton isd's stance on ai's impact on Academic integrity & Plagiarism?
While AI technology offers numerous benefits for learning experiences and creativity, it also presents challenges to maintaining academic integrity. The use of generative AI to produce original content that mimics human writing styles, when leveraged ethically, can enhance educational experiences. However, using such technology to plagiarize—by passing off AI-generated work as one’s own—is strictly prohibited and violates our district's acceptable use policy. Plagiarism in any form, including the misuse of generative AI, undermines the educational process and is unacceptable. Students found using generative AI to plagiarize will face academic consequences in alignment with Denton ISD’s academic integrity policy.
Maintaining academic integrity is a shared responsibility, and when using AI technology, we encourage our students to use AI tools responsibly, fostering an environment of honesty, respect, and intellectual growth.
Please reference page 55 of the Denton ISD Student Handbook for more information.
has denton isd considered purchasing an ai detection software?
has denton isd considered purchasing an ai detection software?
We have carefully considered the use of AI detection software to identify instances of academic dishonesty. After evaluation, we have decided not to purchase such software due to concerns regarding its accuracy and reliability. Current AI detection tools often produce inconsistent results and may not effectively differentiate between human-written and AI-generated content. Relying on these tools could lead to unfair accusations and undermine trust in our academic integrity processes.
Our educators are adept at recognizing discrepancies in writing styles and subject knowledge that may indicate AI use. Teachers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with students' unique writing styles and voices. By fostering a culture of honesty and integrity, we believe we can effectively address the challenges posed by AI without relying on AI detection software.
Are students allowed to utilize ai in denton isd?
Are students allowed to utilize ai in denton isd?
As with all of our Digital Learning Software and Resources, the use of AI by students is subject to careful consideration and regulation by our Curriculum, Instruction and Staff Development Division in consultation with the Technology Services Division. This includes a thorough review of the Terms of Service, a comprehensive Software Approval Process, and an assessment of the tool's value in supporting and enriching student learning. For example, Large Language Models, such as ChatGPT are blocked for student use because of the age requirement in the Terms of Service.
It is crucial that these tools are used ethically and in alignment with our academic integrity policies. The Technology Services and Curriculum, Instruction and Staff Development Divisions ensure that any AI software made available to students meets our standards for educational value and complies with all legal and ethical guidelines.
is it safe to use ai in the classroom?
is it safe to use ai in the classroom?
Ensuring the safety and privacy of our students is our top priority. At Denton ISD, we take careful measures to ensure that any AI tools we use comply with data privacy laws and ethical standards. We choose reputable vendors who are committed to safeguarding student data and maintaining high ethical practices. Additionally, we believe in transparency with students and parents about how data is collected, used, and protected. By adhering to these stringent guidelines, we aim to provide a safe and secure learning environment for all our students.
What are the privacy considerations when using large language models?
What are the privacy considerations when using large language models?
To protect student privacy and comply with FERPA and COPPA regulations, and standard district policy, educators and leaders shall not enter personally identifiable information (PII) into external AI systems.
How should students cite ai?
How should students cite ai?
🔍 If students use AI to generate part of their assignment (like text they include):
🔍 If students use AI to generate part of their assignment (like text they include):
They must cite it, just like quoting a book or website.
APA Style (Student Example):
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/
In-text: (OpenAI, 2023)
And ideally, include a note like:
This paragraph was generated using ChatGPT to explain the concept of photosynthesis.
✍️ If students used AI just to help them brainstorm or revise:
✍️ If students used AI just to help them brainstorm or revise:
They should still acknowledge it in a sentence or footnote, like:
I used ChatGPT to brainstorm possible topics and refine my thesis statement.
This builds academic integrity and shows they understand what they’re turning in.
📚 MLA Style (Student Example):
📚 MLA Style (Student Example):
OpenAI. ChatGPT, Mar 14 version, OpenAI, 2023, https://chat.openai.com/chat.
In-text: (OpenAI)
🛑 Reminder for Students:
🛑 Reminder for Students:
AI can be super helpful, but it’s not always accurate. Encourage students to:
Double-check facts
Use their own voice and ideas
Be transparent about how they used it
Report abuse