Google is introducing new controls for schools to limit students' access to its AI tools. The policy change allows schools to opt out of AI, but this also means they will lose access to Google Search. This shift could significantly impact how students and educators interact with one of the largest providers of education technology. Google's Chromebook laptops are used by tens of millions of students worldwide.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the impact of screen time and AI use on students' learning and development. Several school districts, including New York City and Los Angeles public schools, have banned generative AI tools for many or all students this school year. In response to these concerns, Google has made changes to its products, including turning off AI features by default for K-12 student accounts.
Chris Phillips, vice president of education at Google, stated that "search and A.I. are deeply integrated." Schools that ban AI will not have access to search and will see a message indicating it's not available. Google's integration of AI into Search has been expanding, with features like "AI overviews" summarizing answers at the top of search results.
Google's policy change aims to give schools more control over AI tools. The company will share more specifics with schools in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition. According to Google, schools will be able to toggle on Gemini, Gemini Notebook, and Search individually. However, the policy implies that schools will not be able to use Search without AI features.
The new controls are part of a larger announcement by Google about updates to its AI tools for learning. The company is focusing on a "guided learning" principle, which aims to help students work through problems rather than simply giving them answers. When students use Search for homework help, they will be prompted to walk through the problem or topic step-by-step.
Other AI companies are taking a similar approach. OpenAI recently announced "ChatGPT for Teens," which includes safety controls and a focus on learning. The company allows parents and teens to turn on "Study Mode" to work through questions. Many tech companies have also provided funding to train teachers in AI.
Not everyone is pleased with Google's policy change. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who announced the New York Public Schools AI ban, accused Google of trying to "force" AI into schools. He stated that no corporation should have the power to dictate how children are taught.
Key points
- Google's new controls link access to Google Search with AI features, limiting schools' ability to opt out of AI without losing search functionality.
- The policy change aims to give schools more control over AI tools and promote a "guided learning" approach.
- The move has sparked debate, with some arguing that corporations should not dictate how children are taught.
