A Warning About AI in Vermont Schools
The Vermont AOE is encouraging Vermont educators to teach students how to use AI in middle school, with AI serving as a "cocreator" in high school. The policy is written by one man who started a company called Creative Owl Labs, that he still runs, which helps schools integrate AI into their curricula.
While I am not an anti-AI zealot, I agree with Neil Postman's thesis in his 1985 book Amusing Ourselves to Death, which focuses on the implementation of TV in schools and how it worsened educational outcomes despite societal beliefs it would have a positive impact. I grew up before Chromebooks were ubiquitous and personal devices were allowed in schools, as well as cell phones. It took our state 15 years to catch up with the smartphone issue, and some districts still allow personal devices even though they can easily circumvent any firewall, allowing students access to any distraction they desire.
This is why I am calling on Vermonters to support bill H.650 which is currently hitting a standstill in the Vermont Senate Committee on Education. The bill would create a regulatory framework so student facing AI tools would be forced to receive approval from the state, passing a series of requirements, before they can be used. While AI tools will likely be provided to students too soon even with this protection, any AI regulation would be better than none at all. Call your state senator, write an email, or send a letter if you have concerns about allowing students to use generative AI in schools.