Education Governance in the Age of Generative AI: An Exploratory Study of State Policymakers’ Perspectives

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  In Roundtable Session: Imagining Digital Futures: AI, Cell Phones, and Technology Policy in the Digital Age of Schooling

Abstract

This paper presents preliminary findings from a mixed-methods study exploring State Boards of Education (SBE) members' perspectives on generative AI (GenAI) in education. Based on a survey (n=56) and interviews (n=6 groups), this research explores what policymakers understand and believe about GenAI, and identifies the resources needed to draft equity-focused policies. Results indicate that although SBE members hold nuanced views regarding GenAI's potential, significant challenges remain around policy implementation, with many states lacking formal policies. Key concerns center on academic integrity, data privacy, and the urgent need for teacher professional development relates to GenAI. Our results emphasize the importance of an ongoing, responsive approach to policymaking to effectively navigate education governance in the age of GenAI.

Authors

• Janice Mak, Arizona State University

• Carolina Paz Torrejon Capurro, Oklahoma State University

• Shagun Singha, Arizona State University