AI News Monitor

As artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT become ubiquitous, teachers are rethinking traditional assignments to balance AI’s potential with the need to foster critical thinking skills.

Educators are shifting toward in-class assessments, project-based learning, and oral exams to ensure students engage deeply with material rather than relying on AI for quick answers. Adeel Khan, CEO of MagicSchool and a former principal, predicts that high-stakes, AI-free exams will carry more weight in grading to encourage genuine learning.

The rapid rise of generative AI has forced schools to evolve—from initial bans on ChatGPT in 2023 to professional development programs on AI integration. President Trump recently signed an executive order to expand AI training in schools, emphasizing its role in preparing students for a tech-driven economy.

Some schools, like West Jordan Middle School in Utah, have embraced AI as a learning aid. Principal Dixie Rae Garrison uses AI to provide instant feedback on practice exams and encourages innovative teaching methods. Meanwhile, educators in under-resourced schools face challenges due to a lack of guidance on AI implementation.

To combat cheating, teachers are turning to collaborative projects and oral assessments. “For some students, speaking their answers reveals more than a written test,” said Bill Penuel, a University of Colorado Boulder professor.

While AI’s role in education is still evolving, most educators agree: the goal is to use it as a tool—not a shortcut—for learning.