ED Adopts Definition for AI and Identifies Grant Priority

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has adopted a definition for artificial intelligence (AI) that mirrors the definition enacted in the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020. This law defines AI as “a machine-based system that can, for a given set of human-defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations, or decisions influencing real or virtual environments.” In adopting an existing statutory definition, ED is no longer using its own descriptive or tailored definition of AI. In earlier guidance and reports, ED described AI in more explanatory or education-focused terms—for example, emphasizing tools that simulate human intelligence, support learning, or automate tasks like grading or tutoring. Those definitions were often broader, more flexible, and written in plain language to help educators understand how AI applies in classrooms. 

In addition to adopting a standardized definition, ED has established “Advancing Artificial Intelligence in Education” as a priority, with several subcomponents that may be used by grantors, in whole or in part, when designing future grant competitions. Based on public comments, ED added a new subcomponent to the final priority titled “Incorporate the principles of universal design for learning.” This new definition and priority go into effect on May 13.

Read the Federal Register announcement that includes comments and changes here.