COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) has shared plans on how AI could be used in the classroom.

On Wednesday, leaders from the Department of Education appeared before the South Carolina House Legislative Oversight Committee to provide an overview of the agency’s financial status, internal operations, and potential areas for enhancement and efficiency.

In this meeting, the SCDE shared their ambition to develop an AI framework intended to benefit both the agency and school districts throughout the state.

The SCDE announced plans to collaborate with the U.S. Digital Response Organization, which previously assisted in creating an AI framework for the military. This organization has established a 12-week implementation plan to assess current systems and propose improvements.

They will also design policies, train employees, and make recommendations on AI tools, including when to use platforms like ChatGPT.

The department highlighted that AI tools and technology have revolutionized student learning. They stressed the necessity of establishing guidelines and a framework to use these tools responsibly and effectively.

“People are beginning to reconsider what constitutes appropriate technology, its timing for student use, and how it optimally supports learning,” explained Dr. Rebecca Gunnlaugsson, Chief of Staff for SCDE Superintendent Weaver.

Gunnlaugsson said they see the benefits of AI for students as a resource, but not as a way to cut corners on their schoolwork.