The presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is steadily increasing in K-12 education. Yet our understanding of the best practices to guide and support AI use in schools remains limited. This study has two parts and is designed to explore AI use in Connecticut schools. In part one, the research team will evaluate an AI Pilot that is ongoing in six school districts in Connecticut. This evaluation includes a survey with students and teachers in all participating districts and focus groups with teachers and students in a subset of districts. The goal is to evaluate the success of the pilot program and better understand the conditions for a successful and ethical integration of AI tools in schools.

In a second part of this study, researchers will conduct a survey of all districts in Connecticut, interviews with a subset of technology leaders, and a policy analysis to better understand the landscape of AI use across Connecticut schools. Through this comprehensive approach, the research team will offer best practices for developing policy on AI use and integrating AI into teaching and learning.

Start Date: January 2025
End Date: March 2026

Research Team

Principal Investigator: Carolyn Lin, University of Connecticut
Co-PI: Saira Soroya, Southern Connecticut State University
Co-Pi: Alexandra Lamb, University of Connecticut