Report of the NEA Task Force on Artificial Intelligence in Education

Overview & Synopsis

Access to safe and effective AI-enhanced technology should be viewed much like a modern-day utility and made available (equitably) to every student of every economic status, whether they are Native or newcomer; Black, brown, or White; LGBTQ+; or disabled. However, there is concern not only with evidence of bias and inaccurate or nonsensical outputs found in numerous studies and articles but also the overconfidence and trust placed in untested AI technologies and lack of planning and evaluation that could be detrimental to education systems, students, and educators. The lack of diverse representation in the development and evaluation of AI technology in education and the lack of clear and transparent data governance at every level of the education system are causes for alarm. Our report and statement cover ideas that are essential to the question of AI in education, namely: (1) Students and educators must remain at the center of education; (2) Evidence-based AI technology must enhance the educational experience; (3) Ethical development/use of AI technology and strong data protection practices; (4) Equitable access to and use of AI tools is ensured; and (5) Ongoing education with and about AI: AI literacy and agency. It is clear that artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the educational experience of students and the professional experience of educators; therefore, it is essential that the National Education Association (NEA) play a leading role in ensuring that the transformation is a positive one.