Cazenovia CSD AI Initiative
To ensure Generative AI is used ethically and responsibly in education, it's essential to understand that its primary purpose is to enhance, not replace, human educators and learners. Generative AI, a type of artificial intelligence, can create a wide array of content, including text, images, and code, based on provided inputs or prompts. However, like any powerful tool, Generative AI can be misused. This means ensuring educators and students understand how to use these tools responsibly, critically evaluate AI-generated content, and verify its source and quality.
Transparency and explainability are also key to building trust in AI systems. Educators, students, and families need clear explanations of how these systems work, how they make decisions, and how they impact teaching and learning. By promoting a culture of responsible AI use, grounded in clear guidelines and ongoing professional development, educators can harness the power of Generative AI to aid in the creation of more engaging and effective learning environments while upholding student well-being and equitable access to quality education.
Guiding Principles
- “Human in the Loop”: Prioritize AI tools that empower educators, not replace them. Ensure human oversight, intervention, and accountability in AI-driven processes.
- Alignment with Educational Vision: Select AI applications that directly support the district's mission, strategic goals, and desired learning outcomes.
- Equity and Inclusion: Ensure AI tools are accessible to all students and do not exacerbate existing inequities. Consider the needs of diverse learners, including students with disabilities and English language learners.
- Data Privacy and Security: Adhere to all federal, state, and local regulations regarding student data privacy and security. Implement robust data protection measures and be transparent about data collection and use practices.
- Transparency, Explainability, Training: Use AI tools that offer clear explanations of their decision-making processes. Provide educators and students with insights into how AI works, how it impacts them, and how to identify potential biases or inaccuracies in the AI's decision-making process.
- Continuous Evaluation and Improvement: Regularly assess the impact of AI tools on student learning, teacher practices, and overall school climate. Make adjustments as needed to ensure effectiveness and alignment with educational goals.
By embracing a responsible, human-centered approach, the Cazenovia CSD can leverage the power of AI to enhance teaching and learning while safeguarding student well-being and promoting equitable access to high-quality education.
This framework was developed from insights and recommendations found in the following U.S. Department of Education's Office of Educational Technology publications in conjunction with Google's Notebook LM AI Tool:
- Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning (May 2023)
- Designing for Education with Artificial Intelligence (July 2024)
- Empowering Education Leaders: A Toolkit for Safe, Ethical, and Equitable AI Integration (October 2024)
This framework adheres to the current Cazenovia Central School District Board Policy and the Cazenovia Central School District Student Code of Conduct, and serves as a guiding document for the use of AI in the Cazenovia CSD. It will be reviewed and updated annually by the District Instructional Technology Committee.
Gemini & NotebookLM - Student Usage
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, the Cazenovia Central School District views these platforms as tools that can be used to enhance the learning process and prepare our students for the future. In September 2025, students in grades 8-12 will have access to Google's Gemini App and NotebookLM platform. Students will access these platforms through their school issued Google account. Prior to gaining access, all students will receive a targeted lesson on the safe, ethical and responsible use of AI. Digital literacy instruction is also integrated into all content areas.
What are Gemini & NotebookLM?
- Gemini is a generative AI chatbot developed by Google that produces content based on user prompts.
- NotebookLM is an AI-powered note-taking and research tool that helps you understand complex information by summarizing documents provided by the user (or teacher), like PDFs and Google Docs, and allows you to ask questions based only on those sources. This tool is designed to act as a virtual research assistant, helping users get insights faster by generating summaries and explanations.
Why Gemini & NotebookLM?
Gemini and NotebookLM are part of the District's Google for Education license creating a secure environment for students.
- Gemini Youth Experience: The Gemini Youth Experience provides a safe and age-appropriate way for students to use generative AI tools, acting as a personalized learning assistant with stricter content policies and privacy protections. It helps students with homework, creating study materials, and practicing for exams, while also promoting critical thinking by fact-checking responses with Google Search and citing sources.
- Content Filtering: Robust filters prevent access to inappropriate or harmful content, creating a safe learning environment.
- Data Protection: Gemini and NotebookLM are designed with strong privacy protections, adhering to FERPA and COPPA regulations, ensuring student data is secure. Student data is not used to train the AI model.
Gemini and NotebookLM allow students to enhance their learning experiences, develop essential skills and empower students to take ownership of their learning.
- Enhanced Research and Information Gathering: Gemini and NotebookLM can quickly access and synthesize information helping students identify reliable sources and evaluate information critically.
- Deeper Understanding of Concepts: Gemini and NotebookLM can provide explanations and examples to clarify complex topics.
- Enhanced Problem-Solving Abilities: Gemini and NotebookLM can offer guidance and support for solving problems in various subjects and help students develop critical thinking and analytical skills.
- Personalized Learning Support: Gemini and NotebookLM can adapt to individual learning styles and needs, providing personalized support helping students identify areas where they need extra help and provide targeted resources.
- Development of Digital Literacy: Using these tools helps students become familiar with AI technology and its potential applications. Its use fosters digital literacy skills, which are essential in today's technology-driven world.
Gemini and NotebookLM are powerful learning tools for students. They are designed to augment, not replace, traditional learning methods, fostering critical thinking and independent learning.
