We explore what kinds of work should teachers actually offload to AI, and what kinds of work should stay fully human?

We examine the argument that so-called “busy work” is often not busy work at all, but part of the real craft of teaching. We push on that idea by asking where AI can genuinely reduce friction and where it risks weakening judgment, reflection, and professional voice.

Topics:

• Why some educators argue teachers should not offload “busy work” to AI
• Whether writing parent emails, designing assessments, and planning instruction are part of the craft of teaching
• The risk of letting AI replace teacher reflection instead of supporting it
• How AI can reduce friction without replacing the important cognitive work
• The difference between tasks where thinking is the point vs. output is the point
• What schools should consider before encouraging teachers to use AI for efficiency
• How district leaders can distinguish between productive AI use and harmful overreliance

Source:

https://www.edweek.org/technology/opinion-why-teachers-shouldnt-offload-their-busywork-to-ai/2026/03