About 1,000 K-12 teachers responded to a University of Michigan artificial intelligence survey reported in K-12 Dive. The survey focused primarily on how AI can help teachers do their jobs. Most of the AI discussion has been on the impact of AI on students.
Key takeaways from the survey:
- Most teachers (78%) say generative artificial intelligence tools can help them with classroom challenges such as managing classroom data, building lesson materials, grading, catching cheating, and differentiating lessons.
- Even more teachers (85%) are concerned about student use of AI. Many address the potential to cheat by assigning students work in class rather than at home
- AI is unreliable, according to 52% of teachers. Elementary teachers say AI is not developmentally appropriate because of the amount of screentime it involves.
- A slight majority of teachers (53%) lack confidence in their ability to use AI in the classroom. But 79% feel confident they could learn to work with AI.
- Teachers overall believe AI can help facilitate work they already do, especially in math or science where assessments are factual and easy to interpret. They see promise in AI quickening their workflow.
- Generative AI can differentiate instruction to students who are moving more or less quickly on a topic than average.
- Teachers are eager to learn about AI — more than 90% want more support for using AI tools. Many report they don’t know what tools are available beyond the ChatGPT platform, and they say they don’t have time in the day to track down tools.
- Developers of AI tools need to talk directly to teachers as well as district and state level accreditation board members, according to the report. Superintendents and principals should develop standardized policies for AI use and issue structured guidance on how teachers can use AI as part of professional development.
- Teachers want time in their days to explore AI or get guidance on it. For example, a list of tools to help with an anti-cheating policy, or a general list of approved tools for teachers, students and parents to be aware of.
- Without guidance and school’s support, it can be difficult for teachers to engage in AI tools, the report states. Not doing anything can be problematic.
K-12 Dive
