New York City public schools lifted a ban on the AI tool ChatGPT after banning its usage on school networks and devices in January over concerns about safety and accuracy. Officials held discussions with tech industry leaders to talk about the platforms' potential for schools.
Lifting ChatGPT Ban
Artificial Intelligence tool ChatGPT will no longer be banned in New York City public schools. According to a report from Bloomberg, New York City Public Schools Chancellor David Banks announced the move on Thursday. The school system is now exploring its power and risks after discussion with experts.
The department also consulted their most trusted experts and city-wide educators about this effort, and many of them had already started teaching about the future and ethics of the technology. Additionally, they will continue to gather information from tech industry leaders to assist all schools in using AI tools effectively.
While he said that the school system's initial caution about the AI tool was justified, he conceded that the reaction was a "knee-jerk fear" that led to not recognizing the technology's possibility and possibility of generative artificial intelligence, and its ability to support the school, educators, and its students.
Going Forward with AI
Because of this move, NYC's school system is now making an effort for educators by giving them resources and real-life examples of successful AI implementation to improve their administrative tasks, communication, and teaching for their students. A toolkit of resources will also be offered for educators to use as they initiate discussions about AI in their classrooms.
As per his released op-ed on the education website Chalkbeat, this decision is important for the chancellor as he continues to ensure every student can read proficiently which will prepare them for well-paying jobs and provide quality schools that are safe, welcoming, and supported by both the community and the government.
Banks stated, "New York City Public Schools will encourage and support our educators and students as they learn about and explore this game-changing technology while also creating a repository and community to share their findings across our schools."
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine supported this effort, saying that the change in policy will encourage educators and students in learning technology as a preparation for the youth in the future.
Previous Ban
Due to the potential misuse and concerns raised by the educators of the city, ChatGPT was placed on New York City's list of restricted websites in public schools.
While it did not prohibit the use of technology entirely, NBC News reported that it required schools to request access for staff and students. YouTube, Netflix, and Roblox are the other websites that share this previous classification.
NYC Department of Education Deputy Press Secretary Jenna Lyle stated in January that the tool does not help students to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but rather leads them to cheat.
