AI policy for teachers and classrooms In May 2026, with the rising use of anthropomorphic AI systems designed to replicate human characteristics, delegates at the Annual Representative Assembly of the Alberta Teachers’ Association adopted three AI-related policies, as summarized below.
AI—systems intentionally built to simu- late human relationships, identities and emotional presence. The resolution, which is now official Association policy, stated: Be it resolved that anthropomorphic artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including AI companions and other AI systems designed specifically to simulate friendship, counselling or intimate relationships, not be deployed or introduced into any Alberta K–12 learning environments or support settings. Our schools must never become testing grounds for synthetic compan- ions that attempt to simulate affection and manufacture human-level trust. The teaching profession, therefore, draws a clear “human” line by prohibiting rela- tional AI companions in K–12 learning and student-support settings while establishing strict conditions for other anthropomorphic simulations. In doing so, we are protecting the teacher and student relationship and unequivocally stating that technology should never replace that human bond in the highly relational spaces of teaching and learning. Our schools must never become testing grounds for synthetic companions that attempt to simulate affection and manufacture human-level trust. The resolution is not a rejection of artificial intelligence as one of the defin- ing forces of what is a fourth industrial revolution, nor does it preclude respon- sible use of AI systems or tools from supporting student learning or teacher professional growth. It is a necessary safeguard around a specific subset of AI systems designed to create affection and, ultimately, emotional dependence. TRUTH, CONSENT AND INSTRUCTIONAL CONTEXT At ARA 2026, Alberta teachers also discussed the risks of AI simulations that impersonate real people. Hyper-realistic
Beware of false friends. AI companions and other anthropomorphic AI systems designed to simulate friendship, counselling or intimate relationships should not be introduced into K–12 learning or support environments. Be historically accurate. AI simulations or impersonations of historical figures must be clearly labelled as nonliving entities and used only in appropriate instructional contexts. Be true to the living. AI simulations or impersonations of living people require informed consent and may be used only in appropriate instructional contexts.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES For information and tips related to anthropomorphic AI, check out the following resources by scanning the QR codes or visiting the website links.
Videos • How AI is reshap- ing what it means to be human • Attachment hack- ing: AI’s race to artificial intimacy
Article 5 lessons from teach- ers on the risks of anthropomorphic AI An interview with the ATA’s Phil McRae
Tip sheet Beware of artificial intimacy: what parents can do
abteach.cc/Beware_ AI_Intimacy
abteach.cc/5Lessons
abteach.cc/Human ChangeAI
Human Change Foundation
The Brookings Institute
Human Change Foundation
ATA Magazine Fall 2026
33
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online