Google will let schools disable its AI tools, but not without sacrificing Search
techcrunch ·
Google announced plans to disable AI tools for K-12 students next year unless school administrators explicitly enable them. This policy shift follows consultations with educators, researchers, and policymakers regarding the integration of AI in education. As a result, Google is revising its approach across Gemini, NotebookLM, and Google Search. However, because AI features are now deeply integrated into the search engine, schools that choose to restrict all AI will lose access to Google Search entirely. Chris Phillips, Google’s vice president for education, confirmed that restricting AI means students will see a message indicating search is unavailable. This decision highlights the tension between teachers' desire to limit AI assistance and their need for students to access standard search resources. The change underscores Google's significant influence over the education sector due to the widespread use of its apps and Chromebooks in classrooms. Additionally, Google launched Guided Learning, an AI tutor tool designed to foster deep understanding rather than providing direct answers.
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