In recent months, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools among students in Costa Rica has surged, with many turning to applications such as ChatGPT to complete assignments, prepare for exams, and conduct research.

This trend raises questions about the validity of such practices and the potential repercussions for students caught using these technologies in their academic work.

In an effort to clarify the regulations surrounding AI use in educational settings, inquiries were made to the Ministry of Education (MEP).

Instead of granting an interview, the MEP released an institutional statement that acknowledged the transformative impact of generative AI in various sectors, including education.

The MEP stated, "The incorporation of generative artificial intelligence tools represents an emerging phenomenon that is transforming multiple aspects of society, including education.

In this regard, the MEP recognizes both the challenges and opportunities these technologies present for students' educational processes."

Andrés Rodríguez Boza, director of Technological Resources in Education at the MEP, elaborated on ongoing initiatives to establish clear institutional guidelines.

He noted that the MEP is developing directives to address the use of AI in schoolwork.

This effort includes designing pedagogical frameworks, evaluation criteria, and strategies for teacher support to promote ethical and contextualized use of AI tools.

Rodríguez indicated that the ministry is coordinating with technical entities to advance these guidelines, which will be communicated to educators once finalized.

Currently, teachers lack clear protocols on how to respond when they suspect AI has been used in student assignments, leaving them with limited options for enforcement.

José Andrés Fernández Marmolejo, a member of the Artificial Intelligence Commission at the College of Professionals in Computer Science and Computing (CPIC), emphasized that the country is lacking adequate legislation regarding AI use.

Fernández asserted that parental involvement is crucial; it is their responsibility to guide students in the appropriate utilization of AI technologies.

He explained that the aim is not to discourage students from using AI but to facilitate its beneficial use in a responsible manner.

Fernández highlighted two AI tools, Snapking and NotebookLM, which can enhance students' learning experiences by aiding in visual presentations and summarizing educational material, respectively.

Fernández advised that parents should engage with students on how they arrive at information provided by AI tools, stressing the importance of validating sources and promoting critical thinking skills.

He noted that as AI technology continues to evolve, legislation is needed to set clear regulations on its use in educational contexts.

Meanwhile, the MEP also recognizes the necessity of creating specific regulations regarding AI usage, alongside training for educators on how to guide students effectively, identify the use of AI in academic work, and determine appropriate actions when misuse is detected.