Gonzaga’s faculty is stepping up the conversation on AI’s impact in education.
A recent segment on Spokane Public Radio’s Inland Journal shed light on how artificial intelligence is influencing K-12 education, featuring insights from two prominent Gonzaga University figures: Anny Fritzen Case, a professor in teacher education, and Jay Yang, director of the Institute for Informatics and Applied Technology. Their discussion focused on the dual role of AI in enhancing educational practices and preparing teachers for future challenges.
Case provided a compelling overview of generative AI’s potential to ease the increasing demands on teachers. She emphasized that AI can streamline certain tasks, allowing educators to dedicate more time to the essential, human-centered aspects of teaching, such as fostering relationships and addressing diverse student needs. Her perspective highlights a growing recognition that technology should serve as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, the art of teaching.
Yang contributed to the conversation by outlining Gonzaga’s strategic approach to integrating AI into the educational framework. He made it clear that the university’s mission transcends merely teaching technology; instead, it aims to empower educators to engage critically with how AI can alter instructional methods, assessment techniques, and overall student learning experiences. His insights reflect a broader educational philosophy that embraces the complexities of modern teaching in an AI-driven era.
In an effort to facilitate these discussions, Case and Yang introduced the AI for Instruction Fellowship, a new initiative designed for K-12 teachers. This program encourages educators to explore innovative and responsible ways to incorporate AI into their teaching practices. Funded by the Gates Foundation, the fellowship aims to provide teachers with the tools and support needed to navigate the evolving landscape of education in the digital age.
As the dialogue around AI in education continues, Gonzaga University is positioning itself as a leader in preparing educators to tackle both the challenges and opportunities presented by this transformative technology.
