As generative AI becomes increasingly prevalent in schools and homes, it brings forth significant ethical challenges that must be addressed. A key voice in this discussion is Tamami Kondo, the director of the Media Education Research Institute, who travels across various primary and secondary schools to teach AI ethics and digital citizenship education. Kondo emphasizes that many upper-grade elementary students are becoming aware of generative AI, but this awareness often leads to a problematic perception of it as a simple and convenient tool that provides immediate answers.

Kondo expresses her concern that overly relying on generative AI could diminish children's opportunities for critical thinking and self-questioning. She stresses the importance of educating students to engage in dialogue with differing opinions and verify information by comparing various sources, underlining the essential skills needed for informed citizenship in a democratic society. The article argues that while the use of AI is now unavoidable, the rapid expansion of its application, without adequate guidance on its appropriate use, poses risks.

Several troubling behaviors are noted, such as users inputting personal information or generating images without permission, stemming from a lack of knowledge and low ethical standards regarding AI usage. Kondo calls for a conscious effort from educators to evaluate their own biases and approach in teaching about AI, emphasizing the need to foster a deeper understanding of AI's implications and ethical considerations among students, ensuring they can navigate a future dominated by AI responsibly and thoughtfully.