Artificial intelligence (AI) is an integral part of modern life. Tools like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant have become everyday conveniences. Online shopping and streaming services rely on AI to recommend products and content tailored to individual preferences.
Generative AI, a rapidly evolving branch of artificial intelligence, takes this a step further by creating new content – text, images, audio, and even video. Familiar tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Grammarly, and DALL-E are examples of generative AI, available in both free and paid versions.
In education, generative AI holds tremendous potential. By embracing it, schools can enhance both teaching and learning. Generative AI can streamline tasks for educators, such as grading, providing feedback, and developing lesson plans, allowing teachers to focus more on direct interaction with students. It can also support personalized learning by generating materials like custom quizzes, practice exercises, and accessible texts tailored to each student’s needs.
Beyond productivity, generative AI opens doors to innovative teaching methods. For instance, AI can create immersive simulations or virtual environments, enabling students to engage with complex concepts in hands-on, interactive ways. These experiences make learning more engaging and can help students deepen their understanding of challenging subjects.
However, as with any tool, generative AI must be used thoughtfully. While the technology can process vast amounts of information, it lacks the ability to reason or understand context like a human. Therefore, it is essential to teach students to analyze and evaluate AI-generated content critically to ensure it is accurate, ethical, and relevant. Developing these skills is key to fostering responsible and effective use of AI.
Central Rivers Area Education Agency (AEA) is committed to supporting local schools and educators in navigating this emerging technology. Through professional learning opportunities and coaching, we assist districts in crafting policies for appropriate AI use and strategies for leveraging AI as a tool for enhancing student achievement. Our media collection offers a wealth of resources to help educators understand the capabilities and implications of AI in education.
Generative AI represents a powerful opportunity to advance education and prepare students for a world where AI will play an increasingly significant role. With guidance and support, educators can harness this technology to create innovative and impactful learning experiences. Central Rivers AEA stands ready to partner with schools to make this vision a reality.
Tesha Moser-Zimmerman is the Executive Director of Educational Services at Central Rivers AEA, with offices in Cedar Falls, Clear Lake and Marshalltown. She is also the Administrator of Educational Services & Associate Administrator at Keystone AEA, based in Elkader. She can be reached at tmoser@centralriversaea.org. Central Rivers AEA serves over 5,000 K-12 educators in 18 counties across north central Iowa, striving to improve outcomes for more than 60,000 students. Learn more at www.centralriversaea.org.