AI and The Future of Education

Class numbers are soaring. Teachers are coming under more pressure than ever before. And so, to release some of the burden, the British Government is looking into the benefits and limitations of artificial intelligence in the classroom. From AI teachers to personal assistants for students, artificial intelligence brings with it so many possibilities. In fact, according to a Government report published in November 2023, AI tools 'have the potential to provide different ways of learning and can offer help to educators with lesson planning, marking and other time-consuming tasks'.

Though, it is important to note that the adoption of artificial intelligence in education is still very much experimental. There is still a LOT of uncertainty surrounding the benefits and limitations within education. Though, this didn't stop one West Sussex Boarding Prep School from introducing an AI Head Teacher...

...yes...you read that right!

Read all about it...

Cottesmore School in Pease Pottage introduced the AI head teacher as another resource for students and teachers. When the human head teacher isn't available, his AI alternative is there to give instant information and guidance.

Further to the AI head teacher, Cottesmore have also introduced 'AI Tutors' who are available throughout the school day to answer any questions students may have when their teacher is unavailable.

While Cottesmore School is living in 2050, the Government and the wider education community has some very valid concerns when it comes to artificial intelligence in the classroom. So, with that being said, let's explore some of the benefits and limitations...

Benefits...

• Artificial intelligence tools have the potential to provide new and innovative ways of learning.
• AI can be used to alleviate some of the burden off teachers as it is able to take over time-consuming tasks such as marking and lesson planning.
• The integration of AI in education can lead to a greater consistency and accuracy in grading.
• With AI in education, students will have a valuable resource available to them at all times. This will make them feel more content and in control of their learning environment.

Limitations...

• The use of AI in education poses several challenges. In addition to general concerns about bias, safety and the use of personal data, many AI tools have not been developed with younger children in mind. And so, educators worry that learners could be exposed to inappropriate content.
• Many are also concerned that an overreliance on AI tools could lead to the erosion of teaching, writing and reasoning skills, and may fundamentally change the educational experience offered to young people.
• Generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT are increasingly able to produce text capable of passing exams.
• Educators worry that the introduction of AI may put their job at risk.

In the Government report 'Use of Artificial Intelligence in Education Delivery and Assessment', it is suggested that for the successful implementation of AI in education, the Government will require the following: in-depth training and guidance for educators; and further clarity surrounding the legal frameworks that control how AI collects and uses educator and learner data.

At present, there are more pressing limitations than benefits when it comes to AI in education but I have no doubt that we're going to see more AI head teachers over the next couple of decades as the technology becomes more advanced!

What are your thoughts on AI in education?! Are you for or against?! We'd love to know!