Education Department Grants to Prioritize AI Advancement - BestColleges.com

Matthew Arrojas explores how the Department of Education plans to prioritize federal grants for colleges advancing artificial intelligence in education.

The Department of Education has proposed giving preferential treatment to grant applications that promote AI integration in higher education. This initiative aims to expand student understanding of AI applications, provide educator training, and develop an AI-ready workforce. The proposal emphasizes computer science education and AI literacy as essential components for preparing future innovators and building America's technological competitiveness.

• Colleges offering AI and computer science courses as part of general education curriculum may receive priority funding
• Teacher preparation programs incorporating AI training could qualify for enhanced federal grant consideration
• Institutions using AI to support instruction for gifted students, those needing remedial education, and students with disabilities will be favored
• Research shows 73% of administrators view AI as beneficial in online education, with 56% of students already using generative AI tools