The listening gap is real—how AI might help teachers bridge it

A class in Ontario demonstrated a conversation that had students questioning the authenticity of AI-generated content. Some students doubted the reality of a video showing children walking miles barefoot to school, while others pointed out that their grandparents had similar experiences without shoes. This exchange occurred during a study of restorative justice and anti-racism practices in classrooms.

Peacemaking circles, where participants gather to discuss topics and resolve conflicts, were unfamiliar to some students, but teachers expressed interest in learning how to implement these exercises. Debates over AI tools in classrooms generally focus on issues like cheating and accuracy. However, the real issue that research in Canadian classrooms reveals is the need for teachers to learn how to facilitate listening and dialogue.

Listening is an essential skill in democratic societies, where people must be able to disagree with one another while still working together. Generative AI tools, when used appropriately, can help teachers prepare for difficult conversations by presenting opposing viewpoints and rehearsing responses. However, reliance on AI should not replace human interaction.

Teachers should use AI as a prompt for dialogue, not a substitute for it. This approach can help prevent the widening of the listening gap caused by AI-generated disinformation and sloppiness.