Source: U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics, School Pulse Panel 2024–25.
Teaching AI ethics should not be optional
As AI becomes a regular part of how students learn and complete schoolwork, ethical instruction is more important than ever. Students are using AI tools, often without clear guidance, to write essays, solve math problems, and gather information. Yet most schools have not equipped students with the skills to evaluate AI’s accuracy, recognize bias, or understand when and how it should be used.
At Child Trends, we help school systems navigate this new landscape with research-based guidance and practical tools. Our AI-Class Framework helps schools integrate AI responsibly into instruction, while our AI Risk Framework offers actionable strategies to manage risks, protect students, and encourage ethical use.
Ethics must be foundational to AI education. Without it, students may use powerful tools without understanding their consequences. By prioritizing ethical instruction, schools can give students the knowledge they need to make responsible decisions and thrive in a technology-driven world.