Understanding AI

What is AI?

At its core, artificial intelligence refers to machines or software that process information and act similarly to humans. This broad definition encompasses various technologies, from simple algorithms to complex systems like chatbots. Understanding this foundation is crucial for parents as they engage with their children's education and technology use.

4 Places to Find AI in Daily Life

AI is integrated into many aspects of our lives, often without our awareness. Here are some common applications:

• Social Media: Algorithms determine what content appears in feeds based on user interactions.
• Navigation Apps: GPS systems utilize AI for real-time traffic updates and route optimization.
• Smart Devices: Features like facial recognition on smartphones rely on AI technology.
• Entertainment Recommendations: Platforms like Netflix and Amazon use AI to suggest content based on viewing or purchasing history.

Since the release of tools like ChatGPT in late 2022, there has been a surge in public awareness about AI. However, it's important to note that these tools represent just a small fraction of the broader AI landscape.

3 Impacts of AI on Education

AI's influence on education is profound and multifaceted. Here are key considerations for parents:

• AI is Here to Stay: Unlike fleeting educational trends, AI has established itself as a permanent fixture in our technological landscape. Its growth trajectory suggests increasing integration into educational practices.
• Rethinking Assignments: Traditional assignments, particularly writing tasks, are being reevaluated due to the capabilities of large language models like ChatGPT. These tools can generate coherent text, challenging educators to find new ways to assess student understanding.
• Supporting Learning: Contrary to misconceptions that AI hinders critical thinking, many educators are finding ways to leverage AI tools to enhance learning experiences. These technologies can stimulate critical discussions and encourage creativity among students.

4 Ways to Prepare Our Kids for the Future

As children grow up in an increasingly AI-driven world, parents should consider the following strategies:

1. Encourage Critical Thinking: Foster an environment where children question and analyze information, including what they encounter through AI tools.
   • How? Check out 5 Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Generative AI from Common Sense Media.
2. Promote Digital Literacy: Help children understand how AI works and its implications for privacy and data security.
   • How? Check out Research Rescue from Internet Matters. In it kids will use what they know about online research or ask the helper they choose for some advice.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up with developments in AI technology and its applications in education to better support your child's learning journey.  
   • How? Check out Tech & Kids Making the most of children’s digital futures for the latest tech news.
4. Balance Technology Use: While embracing the benefits of AI, remind children of the importance of human experiences and interactions that technology cannot replicate.
   • How? Check out this Personalized Digital Toolkit with online safety advice that keeps up with your child’s digital needs.

5 effective ways for parents to support students with AI

Parents should engage with students about how AI is used, promoting healthy learning habits and critical thinking. Encouraging students to focus on their process rather than just the outcome will help them grow intellectually, ensuring that AI supports their growth rather than doing the work for them.

But how do they do that?

The guide below gives parents 5 easy and effective ways to use AI with their child. Scroll down below for links and a more information about each idea.

You'll notice that most of these suggestions reference Google Gemini. That's because Gemini can pull information from academic textbooks with OpenStax, an educational nonprofit initiative of Rice University and has the ability to pull information from images. It also preformed the best out of three chatbots we tested when testing it out with the prompts below. Note that at the time of publishing this post Google is for ages 18+ so adults need to be working with their child when using this tool.

School AI, however, is a safe, student-facing chatbot that can be used by your child to help them as they work on their assignments or learn more about the topic they are studying.

Here are 5 ways you and your child can use AI at home ...

1. Build background knowledge with chatbots

Use chatbots like Microsoft CoPilot, ChatGPT and Google Gemini to help you understand concepts yourself.

Sample Prompt: “I am a parent helping my 6th grader study. Explain photosynthesis to me in a way that helps me understand and teach it to my child.”

2. Get instant homework help

Use Google Gemini to assist your child with homework. Ask the AI to guide them without giving them the answer.

Sample Prompt: “My child is struggling with this math problem 3x+5=53 on her homework. Can you help her solve it without giving her the answer?”

3. Create study guides with digital or written notes

AI assistants like Google Gemini can identify text from an image and turn it into a study guide.

Sample Prompt: After uploading a picture of written notes. “Create a study guide for my student using these notes.”

4. Get “just right” resources in seconds

Utilize the academic textbooks Google Gemini can pull information from with OpenStax to create resources on any topic.

Sample Prompt : “@OpenStax I am a 9th grader. Please teach me about atoms.”

5. Introduce pre-programmed AI tutors

SchoolAI’s Spaces allow your child to interact with safe, subject specific GPT-powered AI tutors.

AI is reshaping the landscape of education and daily life, presenting both challenges and opportunities for parents and children alike. By understanding its implications and actively engaging with their children's learning experiences, parents can help prepare them for a future where AI plays an integral role.