OpenAI has unveiled an innovative nonprofit collaboration with ChatGPT, introducing a complimentary online course aimed at enhancing teachers’ understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom.
The one-hour learning program was collaboratively designed and produced by Common Sense Media, a pivotal nonprofit partner of OpenAI. This program, which is tailored specifically for K-12 educators, comprises nine modules that cover essential topics, including the fundamental principles of AI, its ethical implications, and the workings of generative AI and ChatGPT. Teachers are instructed on how to implement these technologies “safely and effectively” within their teaching environments.
According to OpenAI, the course has already been adopted by educators in “dozens” of schools located in states such as Arizona and California, and notably within the Challenger Schools charter network. “We’re in the early stages of AI adoption in K-12, and it will take all of us — educators, technologists, and organizations — working together to ensure this technology enables teachers and improves learning outcomes for students,” said Leah Belsky, OpenAI’s general manager of education.
OpenAI released its inaugural guide for educators in 2023, establishing a comprehensive hub where teachers can find answers to frequently asked questions, sample classroom prompts, and testimonials that advocate for the use of AI as a means to “accelerate student learning.”
This latest educational resource aligns with OpenAI’s ongoing commitment to expand AI applications within classroom settings, especially following initial resistance to generative AI usage after the launch of ChatGPT. The movement toward integrating technology in primary education is gaining momentum, with major players like Canva and Google supporting this transition. In August, Google announced a strategic partnership with nonprofit publisher OpenStax, focusing on enhancing its AI chatbot, Google Gemini, through the training of peer-reviewed educational materials.
Last month, the Department of Education also contributed to this shift by launching its own educators’ toolkit aimed at assisting K-12 districts in the integration of artificial intelligence across instructional and administrative domains.
However, there remains a significant level of skepticism among educators and advocacy groups regarding the extensive use of generative AI within schools, particularly concerning data privacy issues and potential effects on student creativity, critical thinking, and mental well-being. Meanwhile, generative AI is increasingly influencing adolescence, encompassing issues such as nonconsensual deepfakes and the rise of companion chatbots. A recent survey conducted by Common Sense Media revealed that 70 percent of teens have utilized generative AI for homework assistance or to combat boredom, yet only one-third disclosed this usage to their parents.
**Interview with Leah Belsky, General Manager of Education at OpenAI**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Leah. OpenAI has recently launched an exciting collaboration with Common Sense Media to offer a free online course designed for K-12 educators. Can you tell us more about the goals of this initiative?
**Leah Belsky:** Thank you for having me. Our primary goal with this initiative is to empower teachers with a comprehensive understanding of artificial intelligence and how to effectively integrate it into their classrooms. The course covers essential topics such as the foundational principles of AI, ethical considerations, and specific applications of generative AI and ChatGPT. We want to ensure educators feel confident using these technologies to enhance learning outcomes.
**Editor:** That sounds fantastic! The course is structured into nine modules. Could you explain what some of these modules include and how they benefit teachers?
**Leah Belsky:** Absolutely! The modules are designed to be both informative and practical. For instance, we cover the basics of what AI is, delve into its ethical implications, and provide guidance on how to implement ChatGPT in a classroom setting safely. Each module includes real-world examples and engagement strategies, making it easier for teachers to relate the content to their own classroom experiences.
**Editor:** I’ve heard the course has already been adopted by numerous schools across states like Arizona and California. How are educators responding to this training?
**Leah Belsky:** The response has been overwhelmingly positive! Many educators are eager to engage with AI and are recognizing its potential to support personalized learning. We’re seeing early adopters within networks such as the Challenger Schools charter network, and feedback indicates that teachers appreciate the practical advice and structured curriculum we’re offering.
**Editor:** In your view, why is it essential for educators to embrace AI at this stage?
**Leah Belsky:** We’re at the very early stages of AI adoption in K-12 education. It’s crucial for educators, technologists, and organizations to collaborate to create a seamless integration of AI into teaching practices. By doing this, we can ensure that AI serves as a tool that enhances teaching, while also addressing student needs more effectively. Our commitment is to provide support that leads to meaningful learning experiences for students.
**Editor:** OpenAI has also released a guide with resources for educators. How does this fit into the larger effort to support teachers?
**Leah Belsky:** The guide is part of our broader initiative to build a robust community around AI education. It serves as a hub for teachers to find answers to common questions, access sample prompts, and read testimonials about successfully using AI in classrooms. By providing these resources, we aim to accelerate student learning and foster a culture of innovation within educational settings.
**Editor:** Thank you so much for sharing these insights, Leah. It’s inspiring to see how OpenAI is proactively engaging in the education sector.
**Leah Belsky:** Thank you for having me. We’re excited about the future of AI in education and the positive impact it can make on teaching and learning!
