3 min read
One of the most effective ways to begin integrating AI into day-to-day teaching and IT operations is to build on the vendors and devices your district already knows and trusts. In this blog, we highlight native AI tools from our established partners and share practical insights from OETC member advisors on how these solutions can empower educators, streamline management, and support technology leaders across K-12 and higher education.
Natural Language Processing in Filtering & Classroom Management
Securly
Securly integrates artificial intelligence into its products to protect students on and off campus. Its AI engine analyzes student activity on browsers, email, social media, and storage drives while using school-issued devices. Its “At-Risk AI” uses natural language processing to analyze behavior for signs of anxiety, depression, bullying, self-harm, and suicide, assigning real-time Wellness Levels for students and alerting the school when intervention is needed.
Not only does Securly use AI to monitor student well-being, but it also provides AI Transparency solutions for educators and school administrators. School districts can enforce specific policies and guardrails for student devices within browsing and chat applications, and monitor what prompts students use when engaging with AI tools for their work.
Lightspeed Systems
Lightspeed Systems offers AI-powered tools designed to enhance student safety and educational integrity. The Lightspeed Alert platform monitors student activity across various digital platforms, providing real-time alerts on concerning behaviors such as self-harm, violence, cyberbullying, and explicit content. This is complemented by human analysis from Lightspeed Safety Specialists to ensure timely intervention in critical situations. Additionally, the Lightspeed Filter employs advanced AI for content moderation, utilizing features like image blurring and precise categorization to filter inappropriate material while maintaining access to educational content.
For teachers specifically, Lightspeed Classroom Management provides real-time alerts for teachers regarding AI usage, helping them maintain academic integrity. The BOB 3.0 virtual assistant streamlines administrative tasks through smart summaries and proactive prompts, enhancing operational efficiency through the power of automation. Lastly, Lightspeed Insight leverages machine learning for data-driven insights into app usage and privacy monitoring, enabling districts to make informed decisions about their educational technology investments.
GoGuardian
GoGuardian Beacon focuses on student safety monitoring by analyzing online activity to identify high-risk behaviors related to self-harm and violence, providing tiered alerts for timely interventions by staff. Meanwhile, GoGuardian Admin employs advanced AI for real-time content filtering, blocking harmful websites and inappropriate images, and detecting proxies that students may use to bypass restrictions.
In the classroom, GoGuardian Teacher assists educators in maintaining focus by utilizing AI-driven "Off-Task Alerts" that notify teachers when students become disengaged from the lesson. This enables tailored support without the need for constant supervision, fostering a more productive learning environment.
Conclusion
The integration of AI technologies in educational settings presents a transformative opportunity for school districts to enhance teaching and learning experiences. By leveraging trusted vendors and innovative tools, such as interactive displays, cybersecurity solutions, and filtering software, CIOs can create inclusive, engaging, and personalized learning environments for all students. As we've seen through the insights from our member advisors and the featured technologies, these AI integrations not only streamline educational processes but also empower educators to meet the diverse needs of their classrooms more effectively.
