AI in Education

Whilst ChatGPT has taken the world by storm over the last few months and is the poster-child of the current wave of AI tools, an interesting question to ponder is – How does the advent of AI change Education???

The use of technology in education has changed how we teach and learn. The explosive use of digital tools, augmented with futuristic technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning, has been a real game changer for the education system. The days of blackboards, books and pens are slowly being taken over by learning apps, micro videos, chatbots and most recently ChatGPT. So is this transformation a boon or a bane? Let’s discuss.?

Artificial intelligence, teamed with digital technology, can have a significant impact on the educational landscape. So, let us go through a quick summary of how AI technology can positively shape both imparting and assessing education before we go into its pitfalls.??

1. ?The biggest benefit of technology like AI is personalized education that bridges learning gaps. With the help of AI tools, we can customize study plans and lessons to adapt to the grasping capabilities of the students and bridge their learning gaps. This will enhance student involvement and interest and help them perform better.?
2. ?AI can develop new and smart learning content. With the help of generative AI-powered tools and software textual content, videos, interactive learning content, conversational learning and game-based learning can be created and offer an immersive learning experience for students.??
3. ?According to a recent national survey of teachers in the US, the average teacher spends about 5 hours a week grading and providing feedback. Artificial intelligence can address these limitations. AI not only offers unbiased grading but is also less error-prone and efficient and frees up the time of teachers to focus on curriculum, content and teaching.?
4. ???AI can pave the way for inclusive education, opening the classroom doors to students of all capabilities, cultures and languages. Custom-made teaching aids and content through artificial intelligence make learning easier for students with special needs. Automatic conversion of lessons between text, audio and video formats, make learning material easily accessible to students with reading and hearing impairments. AI-based translators can bridge the language barriers and enable quality educational content to be available even in remote corners of the world.?

?So, with all the above-mentioned boons, is there a bane side to AI in education? Well, just like there are two sides to every coin, the growing use of AI in classrooms has its share of cons. Let’s see.?

1. ?Technology addiction is a real problem in today’s day and age. And with all the constant exposure to AI, it can worsen things for the young learners developing psychological, social and health problems. From eye strains, neck, back, and shoulder pains to restlessness and lack of focus, anxiety and depression, too much technology and devices can create an adverse impact on your child’s growth and development.??
2. ??While, on the one hand, chatbots and online tutors help students clarify their doubts without being judged, on the other hand, they also prevent them from experiencing difficult social situations that would, in turn, help them overcome their fears and develop their confidence. Plagiarism is yet another danger of AI-powered tools. In a recent survey by Study.com, 89% of students admitted to using ChatGPT for doing their homework. Sometimes, too easy a world can hamper your growth in more ways than one!?

?So, what is the final verdict, you ask??

?“If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow.” – John Dewey?

Everything around us is constantly evolving with the advancements in technology and research. And any change has both a ‘boon’ and ‘bane’ to it. Embracing change is a necessity for progress. However, embracing change with balance and awareness is the way to go!?

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