AI Integrating into Valley High School by Rendan Shroeder

What is it? Valley High’s narrow AI acts like a guided helper, restricted by district rules, much like a small dog on a short leash. It’s designed to support students and staff within set parameters. This AI is akin to a customizable tutor, capable of explaining concepts, operating in several languages, and steering students away from inappropriate language. It supports the educational environment by providing assistance within its programmed capabilities.

You might wonder what sets narrow AI apart and what its alternative is. The alternative is broad AI, which has greater autonomy and cognitive abilities that narrow AI lacks. An example of narrow AI is the Face ID on your phone—simple and task-specific.

Narrow 

• Task-specific functions
• Limited to programmed capabilities
• Examples: Face ID, chatbots

Broad

• Higher autonomy
• Advanced cognitive skills
• Closer to human-like thinking

Why people lean toward AI being kept out of school setting

Integrating AI in schools raises issues around reduced human interaction and control. Schools are essential for more than just academic learning; they instill social skills and confidence necessary for society. While personal experiences and connections are key to student development, the concern is that AI might make teaching too detached. However, AI is a tool like any other, enhancing what existing software does by aiding in lesson planning, grading, and enabling more individualized teacher-student interaction.

Benefits

Classes have become easier and more engaging. An immediate benefit we noticed was its help in maintaining respectful language. When a student used “asshole” in an article, the AI suggested focusing on the character’s actions instead. This approach fosters a positive environment. 

Experience with ai 

AI had an odd introduction in our classes. It wasn’t dissimilar to canvas. I remember when canvas was introduced everyone hated it but years later it has gotten easier to use. My experience and opinion about canvas is definitely better than it used to be. however the AI is so much better it executes tasks canvas can’t, like grading written assignments and essays. Canvas only looks for keywords except the AI can measure against a rubric.  

Final opinion of using it in school

At first, Sidekick seemed irritating; integration with daily studies appeared impossible. Now, it’s a lifeline, an advising interactive dictionary. I personally really like AI in schools now that I’m using it every day. This is my senior year and the AI has made things so much easier and less stressful.