While schools may have policies regarding the use of AI tools, CK-12 encourages educators to view Flexi as a teaching partner rather than a shortcut. Flexi is designed to support learning by encouraging curiosity, providing explanations, and helping teachers personalize instruction; not by replacing classroom teaching or critical thinking.
Instead of disabling Flexi, consider implementing guidelines that help students use Flexi responsibly and effectively.
Why Keep Flexi Enabled?
When used appropriately, Flexi can enhance learning by:
- Encouraging students to ask questions they may be hesitant to ask in class.
- Providing personalized, step-by-step explanations that reinforce classroom instruction.
- Supporting differentiated learning by adapting explanations to different skill levels.
- Offering immediate feedback so students can continue learning outside the classroom.
- Promoting independent learning and academic confidence.
Flexi is most effective when it is used alongside teacher instruction, not in place of it.
Strategies for Responsible Classroom Use
Rather than restricting access, schools can establish expectations for how students use AI responsibly.
For example, teachers can encourage students to:
- Use Flexi to understand concepts before completing assignments independently.
- Ask Flexi to explain why an answer is correct instead of simply requesting the answer.
- Compare Flexi's explanations with classroom notes and textbooks.
- Cite classroom resources and teacher instruction as their primary source of learning.
- Discuss AI-generated responses in class to reinforce critical thinking.
These practices help students develop AI literacy while maintaining academic integrity.
Addressing Common Concerns
"Students will use AI to cheat."
Flexi is designed to explain concepts and encourage learning, not simply provide answers. Teachers can also create assignments that require students to explain their reasoning, show their work, or apply concepts in new ways -- skills that go beyond copying an AI response.
"Students won't think for themselves."
When used intentionally, Flexi can actually promote deeper thinking by encouraging students to ask follow-up questions, explore multiple approaches, and better understand difficult concepts.
"The information may not always be correct."
Like any educational resource, AI-generated responses should be reviewed critically. Teachers can use this as an opportunity to teach students how to verify information, evaluate sources, and think critically -- essential skills in today's digital world.
Build AI Literacy, Don't Avoid It
Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly important part of education and the workplace. Helping students learn how to use AI responsibly prepares them for future academic and professional success.