SSIS Explores AI’s Role in the Future of Education

As educators worldwide consider the implications of the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), SSIS wants to ensure that parents play an active part in discussions about the future of education.

In recent months, the area of AI called “generative AI” has gotten a lot of attention. Generative AI can create unique content in multiple formats with the help of tools like ChatGPT. With just a simple command, users can summarize complex texts, write essays, or even create poetry, and we’re just at the beginning.

No wonder business owners, educators, philosophers, thought leaders, and others are actively discussing the inevitable impact of tools like ChatGPT on the future. At SSIS, we believe it’s important for parents to join us in these critical discussions.

“Despite initial concerns from some parents and educators, we believe that with the right systems in place, these tools can enhance learning,” says Head of School, Dr. Moran. “And we are investing in the resources needed to ensure that our students will know how to use these, and other technologies, effectively in a safe learning environment.” 

Generative AI and the Future of Education

During her “Generative AI and the Future of Education” presentation, Dr. Moran invited parents to learn more about how SSIS is leveraging these tools and the guidelines our school has implemented about the use of generative AI. 

“With the exponential and unparalleled growth of generative AI, no one has all the answers,” Dr. Moran acknowledged. “That is why we must work together; most of you will likely face the same challenges in your industries.” 

Critical Thinking Is More Important Than Ever

Learning about the capabilities of the countless AI tools released in recent months, some parents raised concerns that students might use them to cheat. Addressing this concern, Dr. Moran shared how teachers use multiple factors when assessing student work, and therefore cheating is more challenging than one may think. 

SSIS also joins many experts in believing that critical thinking and problem-solving will be more important than ever to use and leverage these new technologies effectively. 

Supporting the Growth of New Technologies

Although the impact of these emerging technologies is hard to predict, SSIS’s commitment to helping students succeed in this rapidly changing world is integral to the planned growth and the school’s strategic plan, Vision 2030.

Later this year, SSIS will open a new 7,000 sqm STEAM/Design Center - a purpose-built space for idea generation and cross-pollination. In this stimulating environment, students will have unparalleled opportunities to build expertise in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. 

And beginning this August, our newly appointed Director of Educational Technology, Don McNamee, will work closely with our educators to align, develop, and support new and existing technologies in our curriculum. 

Partnering on the Journey

“This has been quite eye-opening for me,” pondered a parent as she signed up for the new committee for parents to partner with our educators to ensure that they understand and can support their children’s use of appropriate AI tools in a safe learning environment.

We are excited to embark on this journey with our parents. And we are proud to provide our students with the facilities, programs, and highly-qualified educators to help them build skills they will need in the future.