The Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) recently opened a public comment period for its new policy on the integration of emerging technologies in education, beginning Monday, October 27. This initiative aims to gather insights from the community, including students and teachers, on a policy titled “Emerging Technologies in Education.” This policy is intended to offer guidance on incorporating new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), into classrooms, benefiting both students and teachers.
MCPS defines generative AI as “any technology capable of producing original content, including text, images, audio, video, or simulated data based on inputs or patterns.” The guidelines state that “teachers and staff may use generative AI tools to support instruction, personalize learning, and expand access to educational and operational resources.” In contrast, “student use is subject to oversight to promote active, authentic learning and ensure transparency regarding AI-generated content in student work.”
Additionally, the Montgomery County Council of Parent Teacher Associations (MCCPTA) board decided on December 10 to forward the “MCCPTA Resolution on Responsible AI Use in MCPS Schools” to local parent-teacher associations. This step aims to gather diverse feedback to shape the guidelines within the new policy.
The MCCPTA’s proposals include establishing strict guidelines for AI use in assessing and grading students, increasing transparency regarding AI applications in classrooms, requiring parental consent, and allowing families the option to opt-out of AI usage on school-issued devices.
Story continues below advertisement
The discussion around the implications of AI policies within MCPS and their potential effects on the broader educational landscape remains a contentious topic. Opinions on this matter vary widely among the students, teachers, and families at RM. Many students have expressed their views on previous AI integrations in schools and highlighted ethical considerations surrounding the technology’s usage.
Some students believe that AI can serve as a valuable educational tool, aiding in comprehension and reinforcing learning. Freshman Noah Lee expressed, “I think it’s a really helpful resource that students can use. Maybe not for getting answers directly, but for generating ideas and explaining topics. AI could assist in creating study aids.”
Conversely, concerns about academic honesty arise with AI usage, as it raises questions about the authenticity of student work. Sophomore Daniel Kalinsky commented on this trend, stating, “[Students] use [AI] for every assignment now, and it’s very concerning.”
Lee echoed these concerns, arguing that reliance on AI may hinder students’ ability to grasp the material independently. “You can just use AI to cheat, and you don’t have to really learn the material. You can simply input it into AI,” he noted.
The debate over AI usage extends beyond students; many are apprehensive about teachers potentially employing AI for grading assignments. Student opinions largely lean towards skepticism regarding this practice. Lee suggested, “Teachers should use AI for grading but not for significant assignments that require detailed responses, as AI is not always accurate.”
Kalinsky similarly expressed reservations about AI involvement in grading, noting that this largely depends on how MCPS finalizes its policies. “Teachers should probably not use AI for grading, but it really depends on the current MCPS grading framework,” he said.
As MCPS considers potential new guidelines for AI usage, and with the deadline for public comments on “Emerging Technologies in Education” having passed on January 26, many students agree on the need for a more flexible policy allowing ethical AI usage. “I do think they should relax it,” Lee remarked, “but they should restrict certain types of queries you can ask the AI.”
Kalinsky concurred, distinguishing between using AI for study help and outright cheating. “I think they can ease certain restrictions, like when someone needs clarification or help on something without directly copying answers. Implementing some basic guidelines for AI usage is acceptable,” he noted.
If you wish to share your thoughts on an issue relevant to our community, please do so here. Everyone is welcome to submit a Letter to the Editor, regardless of their journalistic experience or writing abilities. Submissions may be published online or in printed editions.
