An AI-ttitude of Gratitude in the Age of AI

Today, as the United States observes Thanksgiving, it offers a unique moment for introspection and appreciation. While the holiday has sparked political debates in recent years, and the story of Thanksgiving causes painful reminders for Native American people, for me, as an American, the day itself, rather than the mythology, has always been a cherished opportunity to pause and count the myriad of blessings in my life. From the love of family and friends to a fulfilling career, and the privilege of forming global connections, this day is a reminder of the abundance that life offers.

Reflecting on my role as Head of AI at Globeducate , this year, I am especially grateful for the experiences and insights this position has brought me. I have been privileged to interact with an incredibly diverse community – from educators and students in twelve different countries across four continents, to parents, guardians, and staff members from more than one-hundred countries, each playing a vital role in our educational ecosystem.

Our decisions as an organization directly affect approximately 40,000 students and their families, and indirectly influence around 10,000 family members of our 5,000 staff members. Our primary stakeholder ecosystem counts more than 155,000 humans. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent a vast network of lives intertwined with our educational endeavors.

??

Traveling between our schools, I've witnessed a remarkable display of interest, excitement, and critical carefulness towards AI integration. This attitude extends beyond choosing software packages and AI tools; it’s about how AI is set to profoundly impact every industry, every home, and redefine our understanding of human interaction with technology.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, I am particularly grateful for our network of educators and our shared commitment to safeguarding our students. Across all schools, educators are tirelessly working to meaningfully integrate technology in a way that aligns with educational goals, while also recognizing when to step back and focus on purely human skills. Their efforts ensure that our students are not just tech-savvy but also ethically aware and critical thinkers, capable of navigating and shaping the world where synthetic life and AI are the norms.

??

I have a little friend named Nina - a sweet two-year-old girl from Kenya. Her and I shared a special moment this year and it resonates with the spirit of gratitude. After a beadwork activity in a classroom, at a school for orphaned children, Nina and I set out to pick up stray beads from the floor. The tiny, overlooked items, missed by the older students during clean up time, were too important to waste in a place where it is not possible to get more, and Nina and I managed to have a lot of fun finding the tiny beads. When I offered Nina two beads to keep, one for each of her small hands, her reaction was unforgettable. Clutching them tightly, her smile broadened, transforming her usual shyness into a radiance of joy. She then quickly toddled off to show her grandmother her special gift. This moment, simple yet powerful, was a profound reminder of the pure joy and gratitude found in life's smallest treasures.

Nina's story reflects the heart of our educational philosophy. As we navigate the integration of advanced AI in education, it's crucial to balance technological innovation with these human moments. Nina's joy over something as modest as a bead is a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing life's simple pleasures. It reinforces our commitment to ensuring technology enhances rather than replaces these essential human experiences. Especially for impoverished children like Nina, who did not have access to digital educational resources just a few years ago, AI opens doors to new possibilities. AI can help us bridge the digital divide. It's a reminder to be grateful for the advancements we've made, while still valuing the irreplaceable human connections and moments that make life meaningful.

??

As we continue to integrate AI into our curriculum, let us carry this spirit of gratitude. Let us listen to and learn from our children, encouraging them to engage with AI for Good, to ask critical questions, and to understand the ethics involved. Let us support the youth to develop a sense of agency in their understanding of technology and humanity. Let us build a community who fluently balances the marvels of technology with the appreciation of life's simpler gifts – a friend's smile, a warm meal, fresh water, or the relief of rain after a drought.

On this day of thankfulness, I extend my heartfelt wishes to our global educator community. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to creating a safe and nurturing learning environment, while skillfully integrating AI tools to enhance children′s educational experience. May we continue to embrace AI's potential with a thankful heart, always mindful of the little human treasures along the way.

Happy AI-ttitude of Gratitude Day! ??