As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into educational technology (edtech), ensuring that these tools are developed ethically and equitably has become paramount. Recognizing this need, Digital Promise has launched the “Ethically Designed AI” product certification program, aiming to guide educators and developers toward responsible AI implementation in education.​

A Collaborative Approach to Ethical AI

Digital Promise adopted a co-design methodology, engaging over 20 school districts, educators, students, and edtech developers to shape the certification criteria. This inclusive process ensured that the certification reflects the diverse needs and concerns of those directly impacted by AI in education. Key focus areas identified include data privacy, transparency, bias mitigation, and user empowerment. ​

Core Criteria for Certification

To earn the “Ethically Designed AI” certification, edtech products must meet several stringent criteria:​

• Transparent Data Practices: Clear policies detailing what personal information is collected, how it’s stored, and its usage, including whether it’s shared with third parties.​
• Bias Mitigation: Demonstrated processes for identifying and addressing biases within AI models, with documented examples of bias detection and corrective actions taken.​
• Diverse Training Data: Use of training datasets that encompass diverse demographics, such as age, race, and socioeconomic status, to ensure inclusivity.​
• User Empowerment: Features that allow educators or users to override AI-generated decisions or recommendations, maintaining human oversight.​
• AI Transparency: Clear indicators within the product when AI is generating content, ensuring users are aware of AI involvement.​

Addressing Racial Equity in AI

Complementing this initiative, Digital Promise, in collaboration with the Edtech Equity Project, introduced the “Prioritizing Racial Equity in AI Design” certification. This certification emphasizes the proactive identification and minimization of racial biases in AI algorithms and design processes. It requires transparency in design decisions and accountability measures to ensure equitable learning experiences for all students. ​Digital Promise+3THE Journal+3Digital Promise+3

Implications for the Edtech Industry

These certifications serve as vital tools for educators and administrators, offering a reliable benchmark to assess the ethical standards of AI-powered edtech products. For developers, they provide a framework to align product design with ethical and equitable practices, fostering trust and credibility within the educational community.​

As AI continues to shape the educational landscape, initiatives like Digital Promise’s certification programs are crucial in ensuring that technological advancements contribute positively to learning environments, promoting fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.