AI in School Psychology Training: Insights from NASP's Latest Brief
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In my last blog, "The Human Touch: Training School Psychologists in the Age of AI," I discussed how the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping practices in school psychology. Today, I'm following up with some exciting insights from NASP's newly released technical assistance brief titled "Use of AI in the Training of School Psychologists" by Shengtian, Krach, Florell, and Whitcomb. If you’re curious, you can check out the full document here: NASP Technical Assistance Brief.
The brief presents a balanced view of AI's place in school psychology training, highlighting both its transformative benefits and potential challenges. One of the key takeaways is the thoughtful integration of AI to enhance our profession while navigating its ethical use. The authors provide practical tools and resources to help trainers and trainees embrace AI responsibly.
A standout feature is the inclusion of an adaptable example statement for incorporating AI guidelines into handbooks or syllabi. This statement outlines when and how AI can be used, emphasizing the importance of ethical practice and academic integrity—a valuable resource for those preparing future school psychologists.
The authors also present a helpful table outlining the "Benefits, Concerns, and Options Regarding Various Uses for AI in Teaching." This table serves as a concise guide for evaluating how AI might support or challenge different aspects of school psychology training, making it an excellent reference for educators looking to integrate AI thoughtfully into their courses.
One particularly insightful framework discussed in the brief is the "Stoplight Model for Rating Level of Risk for AI in Practice." This model categorizes AI use into low, medium, and high risk based on factors like data privacy and potential for harm. The green-light examples, such as using AI to generate an email announcement, highlight safe, low-risk applications, while the red-light examples—like using AI as the sole method for psychoeducational report writing—underscore areas where ethical vigilance is critical. This is a great resource, and I will use it as a supplement to my interactive flowchart.
Possible Applications of AI in School Psychology Training
Simulation Practice: Using AI-driven virtual reality systems to practice clinical skills such as crisis intervention, therapy, and assessments in a controlled environment.
AI Feedback Tools: Utilizing AI platforms that analyze language used during sessions to provide feedback on counseling skills like empathy and summarization.
Scenario Generation: Employing generative AI to create case scenarios for training purposes, including counseling and intervention situations.
Accessibility Support: Leveraging AI to provide personalized learning materials and support for trainees with language barriers or disabilities.
Automated Summarization: Using AI to summarize lengthy readings, making complex texts more accessible for trainees. A
Differentiated Instruction: Utilizing AI to generate tailored feedback and problem-solving exercises for students, promoting individualized learning pathways.
Key Takeaways for Faculty
Ethical AI Integration: Clearly outline permissible AI use in course syllabi to guide student expectations and ensure ethical application.
Training Tools: Leverage AI tools, like simulation and feedback platforms, to support skill development without compromising ethical standards.
Risk Assessment with AI: Use the Stoplight Model to evaluate potential risks when integrating AI into coursework or practice—favoring low-risk applications that do not use personal data.
Balancing AI and Critical Thinking: Encourage foundational skill development by using AI to supplement—not replace—critical thinking and planning activities.
Continuous Learning: Faculty should model ongoing learning regarding AI tools to stay updated on their capabilities and limitations, fostering responsible AI literacy among trainees.
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