Opportunities and Challenges at PHS

Various types of AI are being utilized at Polson High School and worldwide. Artificial Intelligence, also known as AI, is becoming a common presence in education, offering new tools and resources for both students and teachers. However, many educators are divided on how it's used. Their judgment stems from the fact that AI is used inappropriately on assignments. 

One frequently used AI tool is ChatGPT, which was released on November 30, 2022. Jacey Alexander-Wilson, a Polson High School junior, uses ChatGPT on a regular basis. Alexander-Wilson is also part of the PHS Speech and Debate team and uses ChatGPT to formulate some of her arguments in debate. She said, “It helps find holes in my argument. I treat it like an opponent in a debate.” 

She also believes that AI, if used right, can be helpful with schoolwork. She uses it in some of her classes because sometimes her teachers are too busy to help her. Alexander-Wilson explained that ChatGPT helps re-teach students material they may have missed or did not fully understand. However, she also mentioned the negative effects when having AI completely do the work for you. She stated, “It's plagiarism, flat out. So I definitely wouldn't recommend someone using it for their homework.” Alexander-Wilson thinks that’s why phones are banned in class. “People are misusing it, although our phones are a great tool to network, make connections with other people, and keep up to date on current issues.”

The rise of AI is also sparking new conversations and beliefs among teachers, including Brett Owen, Graphic Design and PHSN teacher at PHS. Owen often deals with AI use in both his classrooms and in the workplace. 

According to Mr. Owen, AI could benefit both students and teachers. He said, “I think AI can benefit on a case-by-case basis, depending on what class you're in. It's useful in some of my courses, like computer science and video game design.” 

AI is also mentioned in the student handbook, PSD AI Principles and Beliefs and Addendum to Policy 3612 section.This section includes a summary of the guidelines and rules involving artificial intelligence. It was written by the Polson School District Technology Committee, and reads, “The Polson School District integrates AI as a supportive tool to enhance teaching and learning, but not replace teachers or students.” The main focus is on making sure that AI does not get in the way of learning, and does not produce a strain in student-teacher relationships. 

The committee has mentioned that they value the “human” aspect of learning and education. Another aspect is privacy guidelines and rules. Stated in the handbook, “Digital citizenship and data privacy are fundamental aspects of our approach to AI integration.” The Polson High School faculty and students will continue to adjust to AI as it becomes more prominent in educational facilities.