Embracing the Future of Artificial Intelligence in Education
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing education, offering extraordinary opportunities for students in a rapidly changing technological world. However, despite its potential benefits, some educational institutions have chosen to ban or heavily regulate the use of AI tools like ChatGPT or DALL-E due to concerns about their impact on traditional learning methods. This essay explores the perspective that AI, rather than being a threat, should be embraced in education, advocating for the responsible use of AI tools and highlighting the potential benefits they bring to students and teachers.
To begin, Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIEd) offers improved learning for all types of people, including teachers. AIEd isn’t aimed to replace teachers, Holmes & Luckin claim that they see “a future in which the role of the teacher continues to evolve and is eventually transformed; one where their time is used more effectively and efficiently, and where their expertise is better deployed, leveraged, and augmented” (2016, p.11). To put it differently, the notion of AI is not designed to be a substitution for educators, but rather enhance their capabilities. Adjusting to this mindset will allow people to be more open-minded, rather than fearful of its effects. Similarly, Holmes & Luckin suggest that “Freedom from routine, time consuming tasks will allow teachers to devote more of their energies to the creative and very human acts that provide the ingenuity and empathy needed to take learning to the next level” (2016, p.31). This freedom will allow educators to dedicate their energies to innovative and personalized approaches, elevating the learning experience for students. This will allow teachers to focus more on each student’s learning, rather than dedicating so much of their time to administrative work.
Additionally, not only will the teacher’s role evolve for the better, but so will the classroom. AIEd tools can allow teachers to take their learning environment to the next level, which wouldn’t have been possible without this new advancement in technology. Homes & Luckin suggest that “For example, AIEd can enable collaborative learning, a difficult task for one teacher to do alone, by making sure that the right group is formed for the task-at-hand, or by providing targeted support at just the right time” (2016, p.11). Teachers can’t be everywhere at once, so the use of AIEd tools will allow teachers to support more children, as well as equip parents to better support their child’s learning. More learners will be supported, and less will be struggling.
From the perspective of students, AI can act as a supportive partner in the learning process. One of the most notable developments of AIEd is personalized learning. Suharyat & Lusiana claim that “AI can individually adjust learning materials, difficulty levels, and teaching methods by analyzing student data and learning patterns” (2023, p.350). AI enables students to gain knowledge based on their individual needs, capabilities, and preferences, which enhances the effectiveness of learning and boosts motivation. The advantages of AI in delivering customized learning materials, offering personalized feedback, and assessing students’ comprehension levels, need to be used to the education system’s advantage. While it may be intimidating that AI tracks so much data, the benefit is that all that information is going to help students learn in a way that’s curated for them.
Moreover, Kim et al. suggest that “communicative AI such as conversational agents and embodied social robots interact with students, not limited to supporting students’ cognitive development, serve as an empathic peer/tutor to support effective development such as improving learning interest, motivation, self-regulation, and sense of empathy and collaboration” (2022, p.6070). AI is progressively taking over the education system through increased engagement and collaboration with students. Non-human agents entering the educational world would take on the role of a learning companion, giving students the opportunity to have an extra support system online.
While it has great potential in advancing education management, the use of AI also presents challenges and concerns that need to be addressed. Suharyat & Lusiana claim that some of the negative impacts of AIEd management include, dependence on technology, reliability and error, and student data privacy (2023, p. 350). While concerns about excessive dependence on AI technology are valid, it’s crucial to reinforce that AI in education should complement, not replace, human interaction. The integration of AI can benefit people if used correctly, and proper limits need to be in place to avoid toxic use. Suharyat & Lusiana suggest that “Maintaining a good balance between AI’s and humans’ roles in education is essential”, and “Deep human interaction and fostering emotional connections remain important in effective learning” (2023, p.355). It is crucial to maintain a balance between the role of AI and the role of humans so AI doesn’t become the sole source of students’ interactions.
Regarding the reliability and potential errors in AI algorithms, it is essential to acknowledge that advancements in AI technology are continually improving algorithmic precision. Ongoing research and development aim to enhance the accuracy of AI systems, minimizing errors in assessments, evaluations, and recommendations.
To counteract privacy concerns, Suharyat & Lusiana say that “AI systems used in education management must meet strict data privacy and security standards”, and “The protection of student data should take precedence, and effective monitoring and control mechanisms should be implemented” (2023, p.355). In other words, clear policies and guidelines need to be developed in order to protect students. With these in place, education systems can reach the goal of becoming more effective and sustainable.
In conclusion, while concerns exist about the integration of Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIEd), it is essential to view them as motivation rather than threats. The potential benefits AI offers, such as personalized learning experiences and enhanced administrative efficiency, should be encouraged. Embracing AI in education requires a balanced approach, emphasizing responsible use, ethical guidelines, and a collaborative relationship between technology and educators. By navigating these challenges, the full potential of AI will create a dynamic educational landscape bringing students and teachers more success.
References
Holmes, W., & Luckin, R. (2016). Intelligence Unleashed: An argument for AI in Education. Pearson.
Kim, J., Lee, H., & Cho, Y. H. (2022). Learning design to support student-AI collaboration: Perspectives of leading teachers for AI in Education. Education and Information Technologies, 27(5), 6069–6104. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-021-10831-6
Suharyat, Y., & Lusiana. (2023). Artificial Intelligent: Positive And Negative Role in Education Management. International Conference on Education. https://doi.org/https://jurnalfaktarbiyah.iainkediri.ac.id/index.php/proceedings/article/view/1651