Teachers in Virginia are confronting the surge of artificial intelligence use among students by learning how to employ the technology responsibly in the classroom. Alexandria City School teacher Bernadette Desario said students often turn to AI as a shortcut to complete assignments, but educators want to see genuine understanding and creativity.
Workshop equips teachers with balanced AI approach
Desario and her colleagues attended a recent workshop at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, led by professors Amy Allen and David Hicks of the School of Education. The session emphasized the capabilities, biases, and limitations of generative AI, urging teachers to use it as a supplement rather than a cure‑all.
Allen explained that the goal is to provide teachers with ideas that broaden their perspective on what AI can do in history and social‑studies classes. Hicks warned against using AI to simulate historical figures, citing an example where an Anne Frank‑themed chatbot gave inappropriate, historically inaccurate answers that could trivialize painful experiences.
Promoting critical thinking, not shortcuts
Both professors highlighted that, unlike digital creators who focus on productivity, educators should prioritize discipline and critical analysis. They demonstrated how effective prompting and drawing on reliable sources can generate stronger questions and expand student thinking.
Desario, who described herself as an AI novice before the workshop, expressed gratitude for the support. “We are very thankful that we have a group of individuals willing to work with teachers and help us use this resource in a way that makes the most sense and really supports our students,” she said.
Statewide implications
The Center for Humanities and the Library of Congress’ Teaching with Primary Sources Partner Program funded the workshops, underscoring a broader commitment to integrating technology while preserving rigorous academic standards. Virginia Tech continues to explore AI applications, from pandemic prediction to transportation safety, but the focus remains on ensuring that AI enhances, rather than replaces, human insight.
Allen and Hicks will continue offering workshops in Blacksburg and Abingdon through mid‑November, providing teachers across the Commonwealth with tools to navigate the evolving digital landscape while keeping student creativity at the forefront.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
