Many people have questions about the safety of artificial intelligence in schools.

About a fifth of teachers in Michigan use AI somewhere in their curriculum, but just like a website, the platform they decide to use saves data. Aaron Baughman, an AI strategist at Michigan Virtual, says privacy will all depend on the AI service the district uses.

“Something we talk with districts about is they pilot tools like in Oxford and Northville,” Baughman said. “They really need to take a look at terms of service. They need to understand where the data is being housed, what the privacy agreement looks like. You should be very clear in working with the providers that you work with on what their safety compliance. Most of those that have done the work of making sure they are safe will have the certifications to back that up, which include FERPA and COPPA compliancy.”

More students are heading back to school as we move away from the COVID pandemic, but approximately 68% of Michigan school districts still have at least one virtual student.

Before using an AI, research the platform to make sure it’s safe.