OpenAI Releases Free ChatGPT Course for K–12 Teachers as Some Educators Remain Skeptical

On November 20, 2024, OpenAI released a free online course intended to help K–12 teachers bring ChatGPT into classrooms. Developed with Common Sense Media, the one-hour course has nine modules and has been deployed in dozens of schools, including Arizona's Agua Fria district, California's San Bernardino district, and Challenger Schools. OpenAI's internal research says 98% of participants reported that the course provided a new idea or strategy they could apply at work.

The course may affect teacher acceptance of AI, while educator concerns about privacy protection and control over content may limit adoption. Teachers may gain new AI classroom resources, but privacy and content-ownership concerns may reduce trust. Through the course, OpenAI strengthens its role as an education-tool provider and may influence market competition.