Empowering Students with Cutting-Edge Tools for Literacy Development
For Lisa Parry, a 12th-grade teacher in South Dakota, student essays had become predictable. Seeking innovation, she introduced ChatGPT, an AI chatbot, to inspire fresh perspectives. After completing “Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal,” Parry encouraged her students to consult ChatGPT for unique topics. One student’s exploration of McDonald’s sugar usage intrigued Parry, leading her to advocate for more distinctive essay themes.
Parry represents approximately 40% of English teachers nationwide who have embraced AI tools, according to a RAND Corporation survey of over 12,000 educators. However, recent federal data reveals concerning trends: fourth and eighth graders’ literacy skills have declined since the pre-pandemic era. Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, attributes these setbacks partly to evolving teaching methods in the digital age, including reduced emphasis on essay writing.
Navigating the Digital Age: Adapting Literacy Instruction
The rise of AI in classrooms has compelled English teachers to rethink their approaches to reading and writing instruction. While some educational AI products offer valuable support, Ying Xu, an assistant professor at Harvard University, cautions that AI lacks the nuanced interaction provided by human teachers. AI conversations tend to be factual and quiz-like, potentially limiting students' social engagement and language development.
Jen Roberts, an English teacher in San Diego, integrates AI platforms like MagicSchool and BriskBoost into her ninth-grade curriculum. These tools provide instant feedback on students' writing and comprehension, serving as a substitute for personalized tutoring. Although Roberts acknowledges the limitations of AI, she finds it invaluable for managing large class sizes. Her students have shown improvements in reading and writing skills, demonstrating the potential benefits of AI-assisted learning.
Challenges and Concerns: Balancing Technology and Human Interaction
Despite its advantages, AI integration raises concerns among educators. Some fear that excessive reliance on AI could hinder critical thinking and reduce face-to-face interactions. New Jersey high school teacher Katie Thomas banned students from using computers for writing assignments after discovering widespread use of AI platforms like ChatGPT. She worries about the long-term implications of students relying on AI for essential skills, emphasizing the importance of authentic learning experiences.
Thomas's concerns echo those of many educators who worry about misinformation and the potential for AI to replace traditional teaching roles. Parry, however, takes a balanced approach, encouraging students to use AI for prewriting, revision, and editing while emphasizing the importance of original composition. She believes that AI can enhance learning but should not replace the core elements of writing.
Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Education
As more schools prepare to adopt AI tools in 2025, the landscape of literacy and writing instruction continues to evolve. Newark Public Schools plans to implement Khan Academy’s Khanmigo tool, which aims to improve students' writing skills. Meanwhile, districts like San Ramon Valley Unified School District are exploring how AI will impact writing instruction, recognizing the need for thoughtful integration.
Parry, who also serves as a school principal, views the emerging AI technologies as a frontier of possibilities. She remains optimistic about the future, eager to see how AI can enhance her students' learning experiences. "It's the new Wild West," she reflects, highlighting the uncharted potential of AI in education.