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How much technology is too much in classrooms? Oklahoma lawmakers are studying the issue.

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  Published in Science and Technology on Sunday, October 12th 2025 at 9:41 GMT by The Oklahoman
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The Oklahoma Senate’s newly formed Technology and Artificial Intelligence in Schools Committee has released an interim study that seeks to chart the state’s readiness to integrate advanced digital tools, including AI, into K‑12 classrooms. The report—available in full on the Oklahoma Senate website—highlights a mix of enthusiasm, uncertainty, and a pressing need for policy and infrastructure upgrades as the state attempts to keep pace with the rapid evolution of classroom technology.

Scope of the Study

The study, which ran through the first half of the 2025 legislative session, surveyed 48 school districts, 2,300 teachers, 5,000 students, and 150 technology vendors. Its primary goal was to assess current levels of technology deployment, professional development for educators, data privacy safeguards, and equity of access across Oklahoma’s rural and urban districts. The committee also interviewed stakeholders from the Oklahoma Department of Education, the Oklahoma Education Association (OEA), and a panel of AI experts from local universities.

Key Findings

1. Infrastructure Gaps
   According to the interim report, 36% of districts report broadband speeds below 25 Mbps, which is insufficient for many AI‑driven applications such as adaptive learning platforms and real‑time analytics. Rural districts, in particular, lag behind urban counterparts in both speed and reliability. The study recommends a targeted state grant program that would cover up to 60% of broadband infrastructure upgrades in underserved areas.

2. Teacher Preparedness
   Only 29% of surveyed teachers reported receiving AI‑specific professional development in the past year. Teachers cited a lack of time, unclear curriculum alignment, and insufficient support staff. The report calls for the creation of a statewide “AI Teacher Academy” that offers modular training, peer‑mentoring, and certification pathways, funded through a combination of state and federal resources.

3. Student Access and Equity
   12% of students in participating districts lack reliable home internet or a digital device, limiting their ability to complete online assignments. The report emphasizes that technology should not widen existing achievement gaps. It proposes a “Digital Equity Fund” to provide discounted or free devices and internet plans to low‑income families.

4. Data Privacy and Governance
   The study identified inconsistent data‑handling practices across districts. While 84% of districts comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), only 41% have documented protocols for AI‑generated data. The report urges the development of a comprehensive data governance framework that includes student consent, third‑party vendor audits, and clear data retention policies.

5. AI‑Enabled Pedagogical Opportunities
   Several districts already pilot AI‑driven tools for personalized learning, predictive analytics for student performance, and automated grading. The report notes that early adopters see a 15% improvement in student engagement scores and a 10% increase in attendance. However, these benefits are tempered by concerns over algorithmic bias and transparency.

Stakeholder Perspectives

• Senator John K. Henson (Committee Chair) declared, “This interim study gives us a roadmap. Our priority must be to invest in infrastructure and training while safeguarding student privacy.”
• Oklahoma Education Association President Mary‑Ann Thompson added, “We welcome the committee’s focus on equity. Teachers need the resources and support to effectively use AI tools.”
• Gov. Brian N. Johnson’s Office issued a statement acknowledging the report’s findings and announcing a $25 million allocation over five years to expand broadband and digital device access statewide.

Recommendations

The committee’s recommendations fall into three broad categories:

1. Infrastructure Investment
   - Expand broadband coverage to meet a minimum of 100 Mbps.
   - Establish a public‑private partnership for device procurement.

2. Professional Development
   - Create a statewide AI Teacher Academy.
   - Require a competency‑based AI module for all future teacher certification programs.

3. Policy and Governance
   - Adopt a state‑wide data governance framework aligned with FERPA and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
   - Mandate annual AI vendor audits.

Next Steps

The committee will present its findings to the full Senate in early November. Members are scheduled to hold public hearings in major districts, including Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and the rural counties of Comanche and Kiowa. The final report will likely include a phased implementation plan and a budget proposal.

For a more detailed view, the committee’s PDF report is accessible via the “Interim Study” link on the Senate website, while the Oklahoma Department of Education’s Digital Learning Initiative page offers supplemental resources on ongoing pilot projects and funding mechanisms.

As Oklahoma looks to harness AI for educational gain, the interim study underscores that technology alone is insufficient. Success hinges on coordinated investment in infrastructure, comprehensive teacher training, equitable access for all students, and robust data privacy safeguards. The state’s next legislative session will decide whether these recommendations translate into actionable policy and tangible classroom benefits.