Ball State Wins National Award for AI Teacher Training

Ball State University's Teachers College has earned one of the nation's top honors for preparing future teachers to use artificial intelligence and technology in thoughtful, ethical ways.

The Indiana university received the 2026 Distinguished Educator Preparation Program Award from ISTE+ASCD, a major national education organization. The award recognizes schools that are transforming how we train tomorrow's teachers through innovative technology practices and commitment to equitable learning opportunities.

What makes Ball State's approach special is that it starts with the teachers teaching the teachers. Faculty members gather in learning communities where they explore emerging technologies together, discuss their role in education, and figure out how to weave responsible tech use into their courses.

Dr. Katrina Bulkley, dean of Ball State Teachers College, says the award reflects the college's commitment to preparing educators for a rapidly changing world. The recognition also aligns with Ball State's strategic plan to thoughtfully integrate artificial intelligence into teaching and research.

The program goes beyond just introducing new digital tools. Faculty help future teachers think critically about when, why, and how technology actually supports student learning.

Dr. Susan Tancock, associate dean at Ball State, emphasizes that candidates learn to evaluate tech resources for accuracy, privacy concerns, potential bias, and whether they truly align with what students need. This careful approach helps future teachers become thoughtful decision makers rather than just technology users.

Ball State adopted ISTE+ASCD's "AI for Tomorrow's Teachers" module as part of its broader strategy. Through this framework, the college has built a shared foundation across its programs for preparing graduates to handle the realities of modern, technology-rich classrooms.

The Ripple Effect

As Indiana's largest educator preparation provider, Ball State's influence extends far beyond its campus. The thousands of teachers it graduates each year will bring these technology skills into schools across the state and beyond, creating classrooms where AI and digital tools enhance learning rather than distract from it.

The timing couldn't be better. Schools nationwide are grappling with how to incorporate rapidly evolving technologies like AI while maintaining educational integrity and protecting student privacy.

The award adds to Ball State's recent string of national recognitions. In June, three of its teacher preparation programs earned top ratings in Science of Reading reviews, demonstrating excellence across multiple dimensions of teacher education.

Representatives from Teachers College accepted the award at the ISTELive 26 conference in Orlando, celebrating alongside education leaders from across the country. The future of teaching is here, and Ball State is helping ensure educators are ready for it.