AI in Education: Where We Have Been and Where Are We Going? AI has evolved from behind-the-scenes technology like spell check to powerful tools like AI Agents that can write, create, and converse. Students are already using AI, and teachers are experimenting with it for lesson planning, differentiation, and feedback. However, we face challenges around academic integrity, equity, privacy, and keeping pace with rapid change. The future isn't about avoiding AI. It's about teaching with it and keeping education human-centered. AI literacy will become as essential as digital literacy. We need to shift from asking "Is this student work?" to "How did you use AI to learn?" This means updating our assessment strategies, teaching AI ethics, and helping students develop uniquely human skills like creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Our role is clear: prepare students to thrive in an AI-integrated world while staying grounded in human values. The tools may change, but students will always need caring, expert teachers—like you. Organizations like ISTE, MIT RAISE, and Code.org are creating frameworks and free curricula to support us in this journey. As an ISTE AI Explorations cohort member, I've piloted MIT RAISE curriculum and Code.org AI courses with middle school students, explored tools like Playlab and NotebookLM in the classroom, and introduced preservice teachers to lesson planning tools like Schoolai and Eduaide. These resources are ready for your classroom. Bring a device and let's get to work.
