By Gareth Poon | September 22, 2024
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and daily life by enhancing efficiency, decision-making, and innovation. As we navigate an increasingly digital landscape, it is important that we embrace AI as a vital resource for teaching, learning, and operational efficiency. It is also essential that we consider ethical use and security to maximize AI’s benefits and mitigate risks. We recognize that many of our staff members are already utilizing AI tools; however, in support of cyber security best practices, we are currently requiring staff members to use Microsoft Copilot as the supported AI platform for District work and devices.
Why Copilot?
Copilot is an advanced AI text composition assistant (and more) that can help us create clear, effective communication in various contexts and languages. Copilot is currently the only AI tool that meets the district’s security requirements.
Accessing Copilot:
SD36 staff can access our secured Copilot environment by following the steps here.
To ensure the responsible and safe use of AI, please pay attention to the following considerations:
- Privacy and protection of personal information: Always prioritize the confidentiality of student and employee data. As we continue to develop procedures on the use of AI in our District, please remember to never enter identifying personal information, especially student information, into AI tools.
- Ethics and Compliance: The use of Copilot must align with all other District policy and procedures. The legal and ethical implications of AI use in the sector have not fully matured and will continue to evolve over the coming years.
- Critically Evaluate Responses: While Copilot responses can assist with gathering information quickly, it should not be relied upon as the sole source of information or content. Educators and leaders should ensure that responses are accurate, relevant, and free of bias.
- Physical Security: To protect district data and systems it is imperative that we are always logged into a school district device with your sign-in credentials, even when off-site.
Looking Ahead:
More information and professional development opportunities will be provided in the upcoming school year. We are committed to equipping our staff and students with the knowledge and tools necessary to safely harness the full potential of AI in education.
Further information regarding professional learning and expansion of AI tools will follow as we further develop our AI literacy at the district.
The provided links to resources are copyright-free and can be shared widely for educational purposes:
- Digital Literacy and the Use of AI in Education: Supports for British Columbia Schools
- Considerations for Using AI Tools in K-12 Schools (gov.bc.ca)
