Education leader proposes stronger restrictions on AI and screentime

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), urged schools to regulate students’ use of artificial intelligence (AI) and screen time as they are “drowning in tech.”
In a speech, Weingarten proposed, among other things, a screen ban for students in pre-K through second grade and complete banning of social companion AI chatbots for students under 16.
The proposals are part of a 10-point action plan, also released by AFT, aimed at improving student success and learning while addressing the implications of technology and AI in classrooms.
The plan calls for a focus on well-being to ensure basic needs of students and families are met and aims to establish a “new gold standard” of safety and privacy for AI use in schools.
AFT urged adequate funding of education by governments, and proposed a “tech tax” on tech companies’ to offset the adverse and disruptive consequences of technology.
Weingarten stated that there is a crisis in public education and called on both Democrats and Republicans to do more and stop exploiting the situation.
The plan advocates for a positive vision for the future of education emphasizing literacy, numeracy, civic engagement, active learning, and overall health and well-being of students.