As artificial intelligence tools become increasingly integrated into education, teachers are seeking clear, student-friendly strategies to promote ethical use while maintaining academic integrity. This session introduces a practical, scalable framework for certifying student AI use through a structured learning and accountability system designed for classroom integration.
Built from a capstone project in collaboration with a district curriculum director, this program includes a series of micro-learning modules that equip students to use AI responsibly for academic purposes. Topics include understanding AI’s capabilities and limitations, recognizing bias, maintaining authorship and originality, and properly citing AI-generated content. After completing these modules, students earn a certification status that allows them to use AI on teacher-approved assignments.
A central component of the program is the “AI Traffic Light Model,” which empowers teachers to label assignments as red, yellow, or green to indicate the level of AI use permitted:
Red Light = No AI use allowed
Yellow Light = AI use is limited or guided
Green Light = AI is permitted with full transparency and reflection
During the session, attendees will experience a portion of a student micro-module firsthand through Nearpod, modeling how AI instruction can be delivered in a student-centered, tech-integrated format. Participants will also preview the certification rubric and student tracking tools that support implementation.
The session incorporates adult learning principles by offering opportunities for reflection and immediate application. Educators will engage in guided reflection to consider their current stance on student AI use, examine sample red/yellow/green assignments, and classify a task of their own using the traffic light framework. An optional digital exit ticket will invite participants to commit to one actionable step they plan to take after the session.
Attendees will leave with access to all instructional modules, editable templates for the certification process, and a clear roadmap for bringing this approach to life in their own classrooms, schools, or districts. Whether you’re navigating AI use for the first time or seeking a structured way to support responsible student engagement, this session offers practical, classroom-ready solutions.