On March 18 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm ET, a webinar hosted by the American Educational Research Association (AERA) and The 74 will delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational assessment. The discussion will focus on how AI is evolving traditional testing methods, shifting toward more dynamic and interactive forms of student evaluation. With advancements allowing students to engage in conversations with virtual characters to demonstrate problem-solving skills, as well as AI tools that monitor collaborative learning processes in real time, this new approach offers deeper insights into student capabilities.
The event will feature leading education researchers who will discuss the current applications of AI in assessment, evaluate its effectiveness, and highlight the associated risks that require careful consideration. The conversation aims to strike a balance between the potential benefits of these innovative methodologies and the ethical and policy implications they entail for educators, researchers, and policymakers.
Among the panelists is Victor Lee, an Associate Professor at Stanford University and Faculty Lead for the Stanford Accelerator for Learning’s initiative on AI and Education. He will provide insights into the integration of AI in learning environments. Danielle McNamara, Executive Director of the Learning Engineering Institute and a Regents Professor in Psychology at Arizona State University, will contribute her expertise on learning technologies and cognitive processes. Diego Zapata-Rivera, a Distinguished Presidential Appointee at Educational Testing Service (ETS), will also share his perspective on the assessment landscape shaped by AI.
The session will be moderated by Greg Toppo, a Senior Writer at The 74. He brings a wealth of experience in educational journalism, ensuring that the discussion remains accessible and engaging to a broad audience. Tabbye Chavous, the AERA Executive Director, will welcome attendees and set the stage for the conversation.
This free public event will include a moderated Q&A session, offering participants the opportunity to pose questions to the experts. In an era where technology increasingly intersects with education, the implications of AI-driven assessment methods are profound. While the promise of richer insights into student learning is enticing, the challenges presented by ethical considerations and the potential for bias in AI algorithms underscore the need for thoughtful discourse.
As educators and researchers navigate this evolving landscape, the insights gleaned from this webinar could help shape future policies and practices in educational assessment, aiming to foster a more holistic understanding of student learning. The ongoing dialogue around AI’s role in education is critical, as it not only influences how assessments are designed but also how learning is perceived and measured in modern classrooms.
ASL and captioning will be provided during the event, ensuring accessibility for all participants. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive practices in educational discourse, particularly as technology continues to advance and reshape the learning environment.
See also
Andrew Ng Advocates for Coding Skills Amid AI Evolution in Tech
AI’s Growing Influence in Higher Education: Balancing Innovation and Critical Thinking
AI in English Language Education: 6 Principles for Ethical Use and Human-Centered Solutions
Ghana’s Ministry of Education Launches AI Curriculum, Training 68,000 Teachers by 2025
57% of Special Educators Use AI for IEPs, Raising Legal and Ethical Concerns
