Free Download and Event on Artificial Intelligence and K12 Education

April 25, 2023

Balancing the Benefits and Risks of AI Large Language Models in K12 Public Schools

>> Download the brief here.

Announcing a new research brief from MERC.  The brief examines the potential impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) large language models (LLMs) on K-12 education. The brief is intended for individuals involved with or interested in K-12 public schools, such as teachers, instructional staff, school administrators, district personnel, local and state policymakers, education school faculty and students, community members, parents, and students.

To illuminate the potential impacts on public schools, this MERC research brief answers the following questions:

  • What is AI? What are AI large language models? How do they work?
  • What are the implications of large language models for teaching and learning?
  • What are the main concerns with the use of AI large language models?
  • What are the concerns for use within public schools?
  • What are the considerations for school district policy on AI large language models?
  • What are recommendations for educators and educational leaders?

MERC is a partnership between Richmond-area school divisions and Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Education. MERC leads research that addresses enduring and emerging issues in PK12 education.

Citation for brief:

Senechal, J., Ekholm, E., Aljudaibi, S., Strawderman, M., & Parthemos, C. (2023). Balancing the benefits and risks of large language AI models in K12 public schools. Richmond, VA: Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium.