Oak Ridge High School brings generative AI to the classroom
Imagine being a student at Oak Ridge High School, where history and English classes have taken on a whole new level of engagement. Instead of flipping through heavy textbooks, students now have the opportunity to interact with historical figures like Robert Oppenheimer or fictional characters like Jay Gatsby thanks to the integration of generative AI technology in the classroom.
Introducing Magic School
The school has been incorporating AI into their curriculum with the help of a program called Magic School, specifically designed for K-12 teachers. This program serves as a tool to assist teachers in various tasks such as preparing lesson plans, grading essays, and generating quiz questions, ultimately enhancing the overall learning experience for students.
Oak Ridge High School Principal, Drayton Hawkins, has personally experienced the benefits of Magic School, using it to compose emails efficiently. The program aims to save time for educators by automating routine tasks, allowing them to focus on more critical aspects of teaching.
Empowering Students with AI
Aside from aiding teachers, Magic School also provides valuable tools for students. It offers feedback on assignments, assists in research paper sourcing, and even provides tutoring in different subjects. However, it's important to note that there are limitations in place to prevent misuse and protect student privacy.
According to librarian Caramia Milloway, the initial concerns about students using AI to cheat have shifted towards leveraging these tools to enhance learning. By integrating AI technology into the classroom, educators at Oak Ridge High School are encouraging responsible usage and exploring its potential to facilitate academic growth.
Preparing Students for the Future
Mark Buckner, a teacher at Oak Ridge High School, emphasizes the importance of educating students on AI ethics and application. By incorporating generative AI models into projects like recreating historical figures or creating chatbots based on novel characters, students are not only engaged but also gaining valuable insights into the possibilities of AI.
Furthermore, the school aims to equip students with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving technological landscape, preparing them for future careers where understanding AI and automation is essential.
