Should I Use AI for This? A Decision Tree for Teachers

As AI tools make their way into classrooms, teachers are left wondering: Is it okay to use AI for this lesson? Can I use it to help with feedback? What if it involves student data?

To make those choices easier and clearer, we created an AI Use Decision Tree to help you evaluate when and how it’s appropriate to use AI in your teaching practice.

This resource is part of our full AI Policy Guide for Schools. You might also want to check out the AI Tool Evaluation Rubric and Student AI Use Guidelines to round out your school’s approach.

🔧 What Is the AI Use Decision Tree?

It’s a simple, classroom-focused flowchart that guides teachers through a series of questions to figure out:

• When it’s okay to use AI
• When to stop and re-evaluate
• What steps are required before use

It’s designed to encourage thoughtful, ethical use of AI—not to slow teachers down, but to support responsible decisions.

✅ Key Questions the Tree Helps You Answer

1. What’s your goal with AI?

Are you planning a lesson? Giving feedback? Trying to save time on prep? Or replacing a student task like essay writing? That’s your first checkpoint.

If you’re trying to replace a student task, you’ll be asked to stop and reconsider. That likely crosses academic integrity boundaries.

2. Will you review and edit the AI-generated content?

If not, it’s a red flag. Teachers should always review and customise anything AI produces before using it with students.

3. Does this involve student data?

If you’re entering names, grades, or IEP info, you need to be sure the tool is vetted and approved. Otherwise, you should stop.

4. Is the tool approved by your school/district?

If not, use it only for behind-the-scenes prep work—and consider submitting a Tool Request Form.

5. Will students know AI was used?

Transparency matters. Being upfront models ethical, responsible use.

📄 How to Use This in Your School

• Print and post it in your teacher workroom
• Use it during PD workshops on AI literacy
• Add it to your school’s tech policy handbook or internal wiki

You can download the decision tree here: Download AI Use Decision Tree (Google Doc)

📉 Combine with Other AI Policy Tools

This decision tree works best when paired with:

• AI Tool Evaluation Rubric — to evaluate the tools themselves
• Tool Request Form — to vet new apps before use
• Student Guidelines — to set clear boundaries for learners

Start with our full AI Policy Guide for Schools if you’re building your process from scratch.

Good teaching starts with good judgment. This tool just makes it easier.

FAQs: When and How to Use AI in the Classroom

Q: What is an AI use decision tree?
It’s a flowchart that helps educators decide when and how to use AI tools responsibly in teaching.

Q: Can teachers use AI to generate materials for students?
Yes, as long as the materials are reviewed and edited, and the AI tool is approved by the school or district.

Q: Should teachers disclose AI use to students?
Yes. Transparency is key to building trust and modeling ethical AI use.