De Pere School District Embraces AI with Brisk Teaching Tool
DE PERE – The world of education is increasingly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance learning experiences. Recognizing this shift, the Unified School District of De Pere in Wisconsin is taking proactive steps to integrate AI responsibly into its curriculum.
Safe AI Implementation in the Classroom
“AI is becoming accessible to everyone, so it’s crucial to find a solution that’s safe and secure,” explains Kathy Van Pay, elementary curriculum director. For the 2023-2024 school year, the district will introduce Brisk Teaching, an AI tool designed to empower both students and teachers.
Enhancing Student Proficiency with AI
Brisk Teaching, launching in January, will be integrated into grades 7 through 12, providing a supportive role for student projects. This tool aims to assist with writing and research rather than replace human effort. “We want students to understand the strengths and weaknesses of AI so they become responsible users,” emphasizes Van Pay.
Boosting Productivity for Educators
Teachers will also benefit from this initiative. Nick Joseph, director of secondary curriculum, believes that AI solutions like Brisk can streamline administrative tasks, offering educators more time to engage directly with students. “This tool could significantly enhance our teaching experience,” Joseph notes.
Educational Investment in Future Readiness
The De Pere School District has invested $18,000 for a three-year subscription to Brisk Teaching. The primary goal is to prepare students for a future where AI will be a standard part of both academic and professional environments. “We want our students to be adept at AI but also aware of its limitations,” states Kate Burns, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
A Nuanced Approach to AI Integration
Burns underscores the importance of controlled AI use. “Our approach is nuanced and varies by subject and assignment. It’s about retaining core learning goals while integrating AI as a supportive tool,” she explains.
Controversy and Caution in AI Education
The implementation of AI in education is a topic of debate. De Pere is keen to prevent misuse of AI for academic work. “We aim to have AI act as a partner, not a replacement. We want students to do the critical thinking and heavy lifting,” Burns clarifies.
A Trial Run and Future Expansion
The introduction of Brisk Teaching marks a trial phase for the De Pere School District. If this pilot proves successful, the district plans to extend the tool’s use to elementary schools. “We’re committed to supporting learning in all grade levels,” assures Van Pay.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Future
The integration of AI in education is inevitable. By embracing tools like Brisk Teaching, the De Pere School District is setting a precedent for ethical and beneficial AI implementation. This approach not only enhances current learning methods but also readies students for a future dominated by technology.
“Our goal is to empower students with the skills they need to navigate an AI-driven world,” concludes Van Pay.
As technology continues to evolve, keeping students and educators updated and prepared is paramount. The De Pere School District’s forward-thinking strategy paves the way for a new era in education technology.
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