Exploring AI in Education: A Multi-State Study on K12 Teachers' and Administrators' Knowledge, Use, and Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence

The rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is affecting many industries and organizations, including educational institutions of all levels. The purpose of this mixed methods multi-state study was to investigate K12 teachers’ and administrators’ knowledge of AI, use of AI, perceptions of AI, and concerns around this emerging technology. The quantitative portion of the study being shared in this article utilized a 23 question Likert scale survey to better understand the differences in how AI is perceived and utilized by teachers and administrators within the educational system. The results showed both educators and administrators have a general knowledge of AI, educators indicated a minimal use of AI and administrators indicated a moderate use of AI. Even though both educators’ and administrators’ responses showed a positive perception of AI, the majority in both groups also expressed concerns regarding implementation in the school setting and policy development to guide usage in schools. Implications of this study focus on leveraging the insights of both educators and administrators, to ensure that AI is effectively and ethically integrated into educational practices, ultimately enhancing teaching and learning processes. By understanding the views and addressing the concerns, we can facilitate the development of strategies that maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating any potential risks, ultimately fostering a more innovative and responsive educational environment.