K-12 schools are no strangers to AI. But inconsistent policies are making it trickier to navigate [Video]

Sharanya Sivasathiyanathan is well-versed in generative AI.

The Grade 12 student might tap DALL-E to create a visual of the sci-fi world she’s dreamt up for a writing competition, for instance. Or, if she gets stumped by a new math concept, the Ottawa teen might ask ChatGPT for a more precise explanation to her specific questions.

Still, she keeps artificial intelligence apps largely to her spare time — “extracurricular activities as opposed to in the classroom, just because there’s still some ambiguity whether it’s allowed or not allowed in the classroom,” she said.

Widespread use of Gen AI in schools has been held back by myriad concerns. Does using an AI app constitute cheating? Does it foster over-reliance on technology? How do we address apps spitting out incorrect, inappropriate or biased results? And will using these apps put students’ personal information at risk?

While young Canadians are diving into Gen AI — for brainstorming and research as well as to create art and draft resumés — education ministries and school boards have …