AI in Education: Addressing the Growing Divide and Ensuring Equity in the Digital Age

Abstract

This research reviews the design and effects of a professional development workshop intended to persuade university faculty to try using AI as a teaching and learning resource by employing research-based pedagogical practices. We designed, promoted, and then held the workshop in Spring 2024. The purpose of the workshop was to demonstrate ways faculty can use AI to enhance teaching and learning instead of being concerned about students cheating with AI. We then asked participants to complete a survey and optionally volunteer to be observed teaching with AI after the workshop. One major finding is that AI is being employed inequitably in classrooms, resulting in only some students and some teachers benefitting from this valuable resource. The other finding is that the timing of professional development can be critical in persuading teachers to modify their practice. This new source of equity needs to be recognized and addressed to help prevent a further divide in the distribution of educational resources.

Presenters

Angela Thompson
Associate Professor, Division of Science, Mathematics, and Technology, Governors State University, Illinois, United States

Mohammed Abdul Salam
Assistant Professor, Information Technology, Governors State University, Illinois, United States

Richard Manprisio
Assistant Professor, Division of Science, Math and Technology, Governors State University, Illinois, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2025 Special Focus—Learning from Artificial Intelligence: Pedagogical Futures and Transformative Possibilities

KEYWORDS

Equity, Professional Development, Teaching With AI, Learning With AI