More than 1,000 teachers from across Berrien County gathered at St. Joseph High School on Friday for a professional development conference partly organized by Berrien RESA.
RESA Technology Services Director Kevin Clark tells us they spent the day listening to guest speakers and breaking off into smaller sessions to learn about the latest in education. Much of the day was focused on technology, and in particular, AI.
“Making sure that it is being effectively utilized by both teachers and students, used not as a substitute for either teaching or learning, but something that could be a tutor or a guide,” Clark said.
Clark says many teachers have been scratching their heads about how to approach AI, just as they once did when the internet emerged. The goal is to ensure AI doesn’t replace thinking or actual learning by students.
“It’s not the first thing that they turn to, hopefully, but it’s something that can be used as a tool. And what’s important for educators to be the leaders in showing students how it can be utilized in the right way and not going to it as a first stop.”
Clark says there were also sessions on keeping students engaged in the classroom and the school community. He says the day was a good chance for teachers from different schools to meet and realize they all have the same problems.
Friday was an off day at schools around the county so the educators could take time to sharpen their skills.
