Four Priorities for Human-Centered AI in Schools

Two years after the release of ChatGPT, schools are considering how to adopt long-term, sustainable strategies in response to the rise of generative AI. During this webinar featuring Eric Hudson, we discussed how schools can build enduring approaches to AI adoption that are mission-aligned and human-centered, rather than reactive and proscriptive.

In our first AI for Education webinar of 2025, we explored four essential priorities:

  • Augmentation over Automation

  • AI Literacy over Policy

  • Design over Technology

  • Vision over Decisions

We also examined the research and delved into use cases from innovative schools on how a school's approach to AI can be an asset to its program, message, and community. For resources and links related to this webinar, visit aiforeducation.io/four-priorities-for-human-centered-ai-in-schools

AI Summary Notes:

This webinar focused on promoting human-centered AI adoption in educational settings. Eric Hudson outlined a framework of four priorities: Augmentation over Automation, AI Literacy over Policy, Design over Technology, and Vision over Decisions, emphasizing the need for AI to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. Discussions highlighted the importance of developing durable skills like critical thinking and adaptability for a future driven by AI, as well as addressing challenges such as faculty skepticism in higher education. Strategies for educators included hands-on practice with AI tools and fostering peer-based professional development.

🎙️ Introduction and Overview (00:02 - 02:25)

  • Amanda, CEO of AI for Education, opens the meeting, introduces herself and the organization.

  • Expresses excitement for participation.

  • Introduces Eric Hudson as a key speaker on AI adoption in education.

💡 Eric Hudson's Presentation Overview (02:25 - 10:44)

  • Eric Hudson introduces himself and his work focus on learner-centered pedagogy and AI in education.

  • Presents a framework with four priorities: Augmentation over Automation, Literacy over Policy, Design over Technology, and Vision over Decisions.

  • Emphasizes human-centered AI adoption in schools.

🏫 Eric Hudson's Framework Details (10:44 - 21:15)

  • Augmentation over Automation: Advocate for using AI as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them.

  • AI Literacy over Policy: Stresses value of understanding AI and its ethical use over restrictive policies.

  • Design over Technology: Encourage a shift from AI-resistant assessments to AI-enabled assessments.

  • Vision over Decisions: Recommend focusing on long-term goals over short-term AI-related decisions.

🔄 Discussion on Human-Centered AI in Education (21:15 - 31:39)

  • Amanda and Mandy discuss integrating these principles with the community approach.

  • Encourage adoption of AI literacy frameworks to replace traditional policies.

  • Suggest utilizing AI to rethink learning assessments and school structures.

📘 Skills and Future Readiness (31:39 - 40:45)

  • Emphasize the importance of durable skills such as critical thinking and adaptability in AI-driven future.

  • Discuss how AI literacy should be implemented differently for younger versus older students.

  • Express concern about the rapid pace of technological integration and potential impacts on education.

🌐 Challenges and Opportunities of AI Integration (40:45 - 50:04)

  • Address challenges in higher education regarding AI resistance and skepticism.

  • Stress the importance of engagement and literacy among faculty to overcome AI scepticism.

  • Discuss AI's potential to augment human skills rather than replace them.

🛠️ Strategies for Educators (50:04 - 59:26)

  • Providing hands-on practice and emphasizing exploration and playfulness with AI tools.

  • Encourage peer-based professional development and communal learning to build capacity.

  • Discuss collaborative engagement and decision-making for AI adoption within educational contexts.

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