Artificial intelligence use in Catholic schools and educational strategies
With the start of the new academic term, Catholic educators are re-evaluating the place of artificial intelligence in classrooms within the framework of human values and faith.
Catholic educational institutions are adopting a new approach aimed at preserving human interaction and core values while integrating artificial intelligence technologies into the curriculum. Educators emphasize that technology should be seen as a tool, focusing on developing students' critical thinking skills.
A new era in education
Meaghan Crowley-Sullivan from the iDEAL Institute at Loyola Marymount University notes that discussions about artificial intelligence have evolved beyond mere concerns over cheating into topics of quality education and human-centered development in the digital age.
Human-centered technology use
Shannon Tabaldo, director of iDEAL, argues that artificial intelligence is merely a tool and that humans must always remain at the center of the process. This approach is carried out in alignment with the principle of preserving human dignity, which forms the foundation of Catholic education.
Educators draw attention to the importance of developing discernment regarding how technology can be used more efficiently and ethically, rather than fearing it.
Implementation differences in schools
Institutions such as the Diocese of Arlington are taking a gradual approach to the use of artificial intelligence. While focusing on AI literacy for elementary school students, controlled integration is provided at the high school level using tools such as PowerSchool and LUMA.
The importance of boundaries in the learning process
Experts such as Lily Abadal and Stephen Eschenfelder emphasize that real learning takes place by struggling with difficulties. It is stated that intellectual processes should not be outsourced to machines and that the direct human bond established with God must be preserved.