As school psychologists, we know how crucial it is to present information in our reports that parents can easily understand. During a previous office hours, I discussed how AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini can assist in making our reports more parent-friendly. Here are three key takeaways on how to effectively use AI in this process:
1. Utilize AI to Simplify Technical Language
One of the most valuable ways to use AI is by simplifying complex terms and explanations in our reports. For example, you can prompt the AI to “make the following text more parent-friendly” or “explain this at an 8th-grade reading level.” This ensures that parents can grasp important concepts like auditory processing or fluid reasoning without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon. Remember to remove any identifying information before using AI to keep everything FERPA-compliant.
2. Leverage AI to Generate Parent-Friendly Summaries
AI can also help create summaries that parents can easily digest. By instructing the AI to “act as a school psychologist and edit the following,” you can refine sections of your report, such as explanations of assessment results or recommendations. This approach is particularly helpful when you’re short on time and need a quick, clear summary that accurately reflects the student’s needs.
3. Always Double-Check AI-Generated Content
While AI is a powerful tool, it’s essential to remember that it’s not infallible. Always review AI-generated content to ensure accuracy and appropriateness for your specific case. AI can provide a solid foundation, but your expertise is key to ensuring the final product is accurate and helpful for the families you serve.
By incorporating these strategies, we can make our reports more accessible to parents, ultimately enhancing their understanding and involvement in their child’s educational journey. If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, be sure to visit our tech tips forum in the community space.
If you found these strategies helpful and want to dive deeper into topics like this, join the Prepared School Psych community! There are a variety of AI resources from videos to downloadable resources. Click the button below and use the code “blog” to receive free 2 weeks of access to the Prepared School Psych community. Gain access to a wealth of resources, expert advice, and a supportive network of fellow school psychologists.
