AI Policy vs. Guidance in Schools

In education, both AI policy and guidance matter, but their importance depends on context and goals:

Policy Foundation and Boundaries

Purpose:

Sets the official rules, ethics, and safety standards.

Why it matters:

• Provides a legal and ethical framework.

• Protects students’ data and rights.

• Ensures equity and accessibility in AI use.

Guides procurement and use of AI tools by schools.

• Example: A policy might prohibit AI-generated content in assessments or require transparency in AI grading tools.

2. Guidance: Practical Implementation

Purpose:

Offers day-to-day strategies and best practices.

Why it matters:

• Helps educators and students apply AI tools effectively.

• Encourages responsible innovation without waiting for formal rules.

• Supports professional development and confidence in using AI.

• Example: Guidance might show teachers how to use AI for lesson planning or teach students how to evaluate AI-generated content critically.

So, which matters more?

Short-term: Guidance matters more.

Educators need practical, flexible support now to navigate a fast-changing landscape.

Long-term: Policy matters more.

To build sustainable, ethical, and equitable AI use, clear policies must eventually anchor the system.

Best-case scenario:

Policies provide the “why” and “what.”

Guidance provide