Concerns Over AI in Education: Illinois Takes Legislative Action

Illinois has made a significant decision regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in evaluating educators. On July 10, Senate Bill 2909 was passed, prohibiting AI usage in teacher evaluations. State Sen. Christopher Belt of Swansea remarked that evaluations should rely on direct observations and professional judgment rather than AI software. This change aims to offer educators a transparent and fair evaluation method, reflecting their actual efforts in the classroom while safeguarding their privacy.

The importance of human interaction in education cannot be overstated. The quality of instruction a student receives should be determined by the human insight of administrators, not by algorithms. Illinois’ decision underscores this belief by acknowledging AI’s potential negative impact on teacher-administrator relationships and privacy.

However, the concerns about AI extend beyond teacher evaluations. There are growing worries about how AI affects students’ critical thinking abilities. A survey by the RAND American Youth Panel revealed that 70% of middle and high school students fear AI may harm their ability to think critically.

The use of AI in schools has some students worried about its impacts on their skills.”

While tech companies continue to make substantial profits, schools often face financial difficulties. Companies are aggressively pursuing contracts with districts, offering so-called “free” services, which can increase dependency on their technology. Yet, the reality is that these services could lead to significant costs for children and schools.

Schools are already financially stretched thin. For example, Chicago Public Schools have proposed layoffs to address budget deficits. This scenario is not isolated. Many school districts struggle financially while tech companies benefit from tax breaks and continue to expand data centers.

A report from Anthony Elmo of Good Jobs First highlights that each dollar subsidizing a tech company is a dollar not spent on public education. Despite claims of supporting education, evidence from court documents suggests tech companies simply want students engaged with their platforms rather than focusing on classroom learning.

Teachers and educators often exclude from major policy decisions, despite their direct classroom experience. The new Illinois State Board of Education guidelines on AI, released on June 30, included a 10-person panel with only one educator. Four members were from AI-invested companies.

The guidelines emphasize the fundamental role of teacher-student interactions in learning. Yet the lack of practicing teachers on the panel raises questions about the decision-making process.

The educational landscape requires changes that put teachers at the forefront, especially regarding decisions about AI’s role in schools. Big Tech’s interest in education may not align with genuine improvement but rather with their business goals. Illinois has taken the first step in recognizing AI’s potential harm. More comprehensive measures are necessary to protect student learning integrity.

Liz Shulman, an advocate for thoughtful approaches to tech in education, calls for a reevaluation of tech incorporation into schools. She also emphasizes the necessity of including more educators in discussions to preserve educational values.