Artificial Intelligence

The Wisconsin Mathematics Council (WMC) endorses the position statement Artificial Intelligence and Mathematics Teaching (also linked below) from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).

The NCTM statement focuses on Large Language Models (LLM) and Machine Learning (ML) approaches. These types of artificial intelligence (AI) tools can generate written text, images, sounds, and videos based on data and patterns from other sources. Specifically, the NCTM statement makes the following points:

1. AI tools do not replace the need to teach math or problem solving
2. AI tools encourage teachers to reimagine teaching and assessment
3. AI tools can personalize learning

WMC acknowledges that any statement about AI must continue to evolve as the landscape of AI tools is changing at an increasing rate. We also encourage teachers and students to be critical consumers of any AI tool. Given that, WMC adds the following notes on the date of endorsement of this position statement.

1. We encourage caution when submitting sensitive or personal information to AI tools because of privacy concerns with how that data may be used.
2. AI provides an authentic opportunity to continually "critique the reasoning of others" (see Standards for Mathematical Practice #3) when teachers or students review AI outputs for accuracy, reasonableness, and bias. Additionally, AI tools can be used to create sample student work highlighting common misconceptions, then students can discuss and evaluate this work.
3. Teachers must be aware that local context may not necessarily be accounted for. For example, when asking AI tools to use WI Standards, responses may access Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSS-M). Uploading or attaching a copy of Wisconsin standards or local curriculum to the AI tool may help AI align to local context. 
4. AI tools can be useful for creating novel and/or authentic contexts for mathematical problems. That said, AI tools are biased based on the data used to create their models, so we recommend care when using AI tools for personalized or cultural contexts.
5. "Effective mathematics education requires not only individual cognition, but also social interactions, where collaborative problem-solving and peer discussions are key to the learning experience" (Applied Learning Insights). When using AI tools to personalize learning, a balance between individualized instruction and peer collaboration should be maintained.
6. As instructors employ AI tools in their classrooms, they will need to consider how the tools support the development of student conceptual understanding. 

For more information:

• NCTM's Position Statement: Artificial Intelligence and Mathematics Teaching
• Standards for Mathematical Practice (Wisconsin Standards for Mathematics)
• Thoughts on the NCTM Position Statement on Artificial Intelligence and Mathematics Teaching (Applied Learning Insights, 2025)

Approved on June 25, 2025
(Note: Some links within the position statement may no longer be active; however, the statement remains approved by the WMC as part of its regular approval process.)