Date of Defense
4-15-2025
Date of Graduation
4-2025
Department
Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies
First Advisor
Jonathan Bush
Second Advisor
Summer Davis
Third Advisor
Morgan Shiver
Abstract
This qualitative study explores secondary school teachers' perceptions and attitudes toward artificial intelligence (AI) integration in classroom settings. Through in-depth interviews with educators at three diverse high schools across Colorado, Indiana, and Michigan during Fall 2024, the research investigates how teachers understand, implement, and wrestle with AI technology in their pedagogical practice. The study specifically examines four key areas: school dynamics around AI adoption, teachers' personal use of AI tools, student engagement with AI, and recommendations for new educators entering the field.
Key findings reveal that fear and uncertainty remain significant barriers to AI adoption among educators, particularly regarding its impact on students' critical thinking skills. However, teachers who have actively integrated AI report positive outcomes, especially when using it as a collaborative tool for lesson planning and thesis development. The research also highlights the lack of standardized AI policies across schools and departments, leading to inconsistent implementation and student confusion.
This study contributes to the growing body of literature on educational technology integration by providing detailed insights into the practical challenges and opportunities teachers face when adapting to AI tools. The findings suggest that comprehensive teacher training and clear institutional policies are essential for effective AI integration in secondary education. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the importance of viewing AI as an enhancement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional teaching methods. These insights have significant implications for teacher preparation programs and school administration policies regarding educational technology adoption (“Construct an abstract based on my thesis in my research”).
Recommended Citation
Windemuller, Malachi, "Artificial Intelligence in the Secondary Classroom: Exploring Teacher Perceptions" (2025). Honors Theses. 3917.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/3917
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Open Access
Poster