Simplifying Generative AI Integration for Schools
When you join the Association for Academic Leaders, you give the Academic Leaders on your campus the tools they need to lead effectively with Generative AI.
In the whirlwind of 2020, One Schoolhouse shared a vital piece of advice that proved transformative for many schools: "Simplify your technology portfolio." Amid the pandemic’s chaos, this guidance helped schools focus on delivering quality education. The traditional independent school model, where faculty chose their own tools, became unmanageable. Schools that adopted a single Learning Management System standardized templates for all faculty saw significant benefits for students, families and educators.
As we deepen our use of Generative AI, this gradual shift promises to be as profound and significant as the rapid move to distance learning was. The sheer number of Generative AI tools available can be overwhelming. Schools that adopt a single, versatile AI tool can navigate this new landscape efficiently, keeping educators and students focused on learning and growth. Here are the five priorities that keep you focused on what’s right for your school:
Establish a Technology Exploration Group
To stay ahead, form a group dedicated to researching and evaluating new AI tools. This team should understand that not every tool tested will be adopted campus-wide. Their mission is to explore and assess, ensuring that your school makes informed, strategic decisions about which technologies to implement.
Member Resource to Dive Deeper: Bob Weiman, Associate Head of School at St. Stephen and St. Agnes School created an all-inclusive Generative AI research group on campus: “We made it clear that using Generative AI is not just for teaching and learning. It's about all of us, faculty, staff, and administration."
Avoid the Whack-a-Mole Approach
Constantly switching tools with every new AI release is impractical and costly. Generative AI applications will vary, but you are responsible for securing sensitive data, from academic records to donor information. A unified approach to AI tools helps maintain security and consistency, providing peace of mind as you adapt to evolving technology.
Member Resources to Dive Deeper: Generative AI Member Portal Library on topics like policy development, getting started, AI in practice, academic honesty and more.
Prioritize Paid Tools for Data Privacy and Security
Investing in paid AI tools is often necessary to ensure data privacy and security. The saying, “if the product is free, you’re the product,” holds true. Thoroughly review terms of service and privacy policies. Christina Lewellen, Executive Director of ATLIS, suggests using an AI tool to highlight potential red flags in these documents, while still conducting your own detailed review.
Member Resource to Dive Deeper: Chapter 4 of the 2024 Insights Report: Essential Safeguards for Responsible Use
Leverage Existing Productivity Tools
You don’t need to provide a vast array of AI tools to everyone. Start with what’s familiar. If your campus primarily uses a specific productivity suite, begin with the associated AI tool. For instance, Microsoft Office users should explore Microsoft's Co-pilot, while Google Suite users might start with Gemini. This familiarity can ease the adoption process and help users integrate AI more quickly. If using multiple productivity tools, consider enabling AI in just one initially. Expand only if additional functionalities are needed.
Member Resource to Dive Deeper: Chapter 4 of the 2024 Insights Report: Experimentation in a Policy Void
Distinguish Between Productivity and EdTech AI Tools
AI tools for productivity and those for education serve different purposes. Bill Fitzgerald of Global Cyber Alliance highlights that many edtech AI offerings often overpromise and underdeliver. Choose tools that genuinely enhance learning rather than those that merely chase trends.
Navigating Generative AI doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on simplicity and consistency, your school can effectively harness AI’s power while maintaining a secure, cohesive environment. The goal is to enhance learning and streamline operations—not to chase every new trend. With careful planning and a unified strategy, your school can integrate AI in a way that truly benefits your community, ensuring that both educators and students achieve their best.
Member Resource to Dive Deeper: Leading Your Department/Team in Understanding Generative AI: Stay ahead of the curve with our course on Generative AI and shape your school in adopting and adapting to new technologies. August 5-9. AI for YOU, Academic Leader: Generative AI can help you navigate your administrative work more efficiently, and boost your ability to focus on the human aspects of your job. Learn the skills you need and model adoption strategies for your faculty. July 22-26.
