School boards lacking formal policies for AI as students return to class

Among the school boards that responded to a survey by The Canadian Press, none had an official AI-specific policy in place. One expert says broad policies aren't the answer.

Some of the largest school boards across Canada will begin the new school year without formal policies on the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom, despite concerns about how the technology will impact learning and academic integrity.

But while there seems to be wide consensus on the need for more guidance and vigilance when it comes to AI in schooling, one education expert says blanket policies are not likely to help anyway.

The Canadian Press asked 10 school boards in different parts of the country whether they would implement a formal policy for the 2023-24 school year that covers teacher and student use of AI, such as chatbots that can solve math problems or write essays.

Among the boards that responded to the survey, none had an official AI-specific policy in place. Some said they would apply their existing codes of conduct to the use of AI in the classroom, while others said they’re in consultations on how to best tackle the fast-growing issue.

Toronto District School Board, the largest in the country, only said in a brief statement that its staff will be “looking into it further” to determine if any changes are required to the board’s academic honesty rules.

Just west of Toronto, the Peel District School Board said it is “keenly aware of the ethical implications and potential risks associated with AI in education” and is taking a “proactive approach” to mitigate any risks.

“Through ongoing discussions and collaboration with departmental staff and consultants, the school board is ensuring that our artificial intelligence implementation aligns with best practices, ethical considerations, and the unique needs of our diverse student population,” the school board said in a statement. “This work will inform board policy on use of AI in classrooms and any mitigating action, if needed.”

The Calgary Board of Education said it does not have a formal policy on AI but it’s working with schools to “build a common understanding of AI’s legitimate uses and limitations in education,” with a focus on ethics. The board said expectations of students are already outlined in its student code of conduct and teachers must “clearly identify” when use of AI is not permitted in assignments.