CTL recently attended the SETDA annual conference, where Isabella Zachariah, a Policy Fellow within the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Educational Technology (OET), shared three important resources that are new and available to schools. We enjoyed this session and felt these resources were important to amplify here for our audiences as well.
Below are the three crucial resources, recommended by Ms. Zachariah, that address the most important issues facing classrooms today head-on, equipping schools with the tools they need to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) effectively, safeguarding against cyber threats, and promoting children's online safety and well-being.
Harnessing the Power of AI in Education
The U.S. Department of Education's recently released toolkit, "Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Classroom," empowers educators to explore the potential of AI in enhancing learning experiences. Building on the Department’s prior report, “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations (“AI Report”),” this toolkit will help educational leaders make critical decisions about incorporating AI applications into student learning and the instructional core. It also defines AI, outlines its potential benefits and risks, and provides guidance for creating policies to ensure its safe and effective use. The toolkit also emphasizes transparency, awareness, and the importance of providing opt-out options for students, teachers, and parents.
Shielding Schools and Libraries from Cyberattacks
In today's interconnected world, cybersecurity is paramount, especially for institutions entrusted with safeguarding sensitive student data. Schools are increasingly targeted for cyber crime. The "Cybersecurity Resource Recommendations" developed by the FCC and the U.S. Department of Education offers schools and libraries a roadmap for fortifying their cybersecurity defenses. This valuable resource highlights the Cybersecurity Pilot Program and emphasizes the significance of prioritizing foundational safeguards. It recommends free and low-cost solutions to address the most common cybersecurity vulnerabilities, empowering schools and libraries to protect their networks and data effectively.
CTL is so concerned about cybersecurity that we recently teamed up with Google and some other partners to discuss the security of the ChromeOS platform, new funding for cybersecurity initiatives in schools, and the latest in phishing training solutions. Watch the webinar on-demand here.
Ensuring Children's Safety and Well-being Online
The internet presents a treasure trove of information and connection for children and youth. However, it also harbors potential risks. The "Online Health and Safety for Children and Youth: Best Practices for Families and Guidance for Industry" report, published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), delves into this critical topic. This insightful document explores the multifaceted nature of online platforms for young people, outlining the potential benefits and risks. It provides valuable guidance for parents and caregivers on how to navigate the online world with their children. Additionally, the report outlines recommended practices for the technology industry and proposes a research agenda to further strengthen online safety measures for children and youth.
Empowering Educators, Safeguarding Schools, and Fostering Children's Well-being
These three essential resources offer a comprehensive approach to harnessing the positive potential of technology in education while mitigating the associated risks. By equipping educational institutions with the knowledge and tools to leverage AI effectively, fortifying cybersecurity defenses in schools and libraries, and promoting children's online safety and well-being, we can create a more secure and enriching learning environment for all.
Call to Action
As a Chromebook device manufacturer for schools, CTL encourages educators, school leaders, policymakers, parents, and technology industry leaders to explore these valuable resources and work collaboratively to leverage technology for the benefit of our children's education and well-being in the digital age. Let's embrace innovation while fostering a safe and secure online environment for future generations.
