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Artificial Intelligence Overview
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly prevalent in technology systems used in daily life and education. Deer Valley Unified School District (DVUSD) recognizes the significance of AI while prioritizing student well-being and privacy as well as academic integrity to support student learning and growth.
Definition and Function of AI
AI refers to computer systems capable of tasks requiring pattern detection and automated decision-making. Common tools such as auto-correct, predictive text, and voice assistants have AI capabilities within their design. As with each technology advancement, the presence of AI in systems continues to abound rapidly. While AI may seem new, it is already making a profound impact on the workplace due to the ability to gather information quickly, generate ideas, and synthesize information.
Educational Potential of AI
Educational technology tools support the instruction and learning process that takes place in our classrooms alongside the expertise of teachers and the relationships established with students. To positively impact student achievement some digital curriculum and assessment products provide adaptivity to individualize feedback and adjust questioning to meet students at their stage of learning. These tools are utilized strategically by teachers and are complemented by the use of additional instructional strategies and resources.
Generative AI
A newer development that carries implications for the educational environment is generative AI-enabled chatbots that enable quick processing of data and production of creative products. Specifically, the advanced AI systems that generate human-like text responses by learning from vast amounts of data are Large Language Models (LLMs). Current examples of LLMs include ChatGPT and Google Bard, among others. The modeling capabilities of generative AI present an opportunity for educators to explore the merits of using these tools along with being reflective about how students demonstrate their learning, considering how to promote critical thinking.
What Are Large Language Models (LLMs)?
LLMs, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, are artificial intelligence systems that can understand and generate human-like text. They are trained on various sources, including books, websites, and more. When we interact with an LLM, it considers our input and generates a response that fits the context of the conversation. These models are becoming increasingly prevalent; for instance, as of June 2023, over 100 million people used ChatGPT daily.
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AI & Portrait of a Graduate
Students graduating from DVUSD will need to be able to safely navigate AI technologies and make choices about their use. AI-enhanced technology presents opportunities for students to develop the traits in DVUSD’s Portrait of a Graduate:
Community Contributor
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- AI can facilitate collaboration among students by providing intelligent platforms for group projects and virtual discussions. It can also connect students with global communities, allowing them to learn from diverse perspectives and become active contributors to a global society.
Effective Communicator
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- AI can support students in developing effective communication skills by providing real-time feedback on their writing, speaking, and presentation skills. Intelligent language processing tools can assist students in refining their communication abilities, fostering clarity, coherence, and articulation.
Intellectually Curious
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- AI can ignite students' intellectual curiosity by offering personalized and engaging learning experiences. Through adaptive algorithms, AI systems can identify students' interests and tailor content to match their curiosity, promoting exploration and a thirst for knowledge.
Problem Solver
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- AI provides students with opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. AI-powered simulations and virtual scenarios can present complex challenges, allowing students to analyze information, make informed decisions, and apply innovative problem-solving strategies.
Sense of Self and Others
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- AI can assist in promoting empathy and understanding by providing access to diverse perspectives and experiences. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications can enable students to step into the shoes of others, fostering empathy, compassion, and a sense of global citizenship.
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AI & DVUSD's Strategic Plan
Aligning to DVUSD's Vision & Mission Statement, incorporating AI in DVUSD will assist students in preparing for the impact that AI will have on the future workforce.
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AZ's Guidance for Gen AI in K-12 Schools
Generative AI Guidance for Arizona's K-12 Schools and School Systems was released in May 2024. Deer Valley USD's Manager of Instructional Technology, Michelle Coots, is on the core team that drafted the guidance and Superintendent Dr Curtis Finch served as a reviewer. Learn more and view the AI Guidance here.