Is That AI Tool Really Worth It? A Teacher’s Checklist

Stage: All · Language: English · Format: Checklist

New AI tools for teachers appear every week. Before you spend time — or your school spends money — run the tool through these six areas.

1. Ease of use

• Is it intuitive for both teachers and students?
• Can you start quickly without long training?
• Is help available and easy to find?
• Does it work with the tools you already use?

2. Educational value

• Does it match your learning goals and syllabus?
• Does it deepen understanding and engagement — or just add screen time?
• Is the content relevant and meaningful for your students?
• Can it be used across subjects?

3. Ethical standards

• Does it reduce bias and treat all learners fairly?
• Is it clear how it works and generates content?
• Are there safeguards and someone accountable when things go wrong?
• Does it support equity and inclusion?

4. Effectiveness

• Does it actually do what it promises?
• Is the output accurate, relevant and reliable?
• Can you see improvement in learning or engagement?
• Does it need constant fixing or re-prompting?

5. Cost

• Is it fairly priced — and what do the free limits really allow?
• Does the value justify the cost?
• Are there hidden costs or renewal fees?
• Can it replace or improve on tools you already pay for?

6. Data privacy and accessibility

• What data does it collect, where is it stored, and how is it used?
• Does it comply with privacy law — in India, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (international tools may also mention GDPR or FERPA)?
• What is the minimum age, and is parental consent needed for students?
• Is it accessible for learners with disabilities and for low-bandwidth devices?

Tip: if the answer to most privacy questions is “I don’t know”, do not use the tool with students yet. Try it yourself first, without any student data.