Overview

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field of science and engineering that builds machines that are capable of thinking like humans. AI is defined as “the science and engineering of making intelligent machines” by John McCarthy one of the founding fathers of AI. It can recognize patterns, make decisions, and problem solve just like humans but at the same time dealing with huge amount of data which humans are unable to process quickly (McCarthy, 2007). AI in education refers to the use of Artificial Intelligence technologies and techniques to enhance the teaching and learning in educational settings. It can be “an effective learning tool that lessens the burdens of both teachers and students and offers effective learning experiences for students” (Zhai et. al, 2021). AI and education have a growing and transformative relationship that is reshaping the way students learn, teachers teach and how educational institutions work (Pl, 2020).

By using AI, educators can create a more interactive and dynamic learning environment that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills (Stormy, 2023). Teachers can use AI tools to analyze students’ learning styles, performance, strengths and weaknesses and use the information to tailor their instruction to meet the unique needs of their individual learners. They can create content such as assignments, quizzes, practice exercises, and instructional videos to supplement their lessons. AI can also help with curating content so teachers can select and customize materials to meet specific classroom objectives (Gupta, D. 2023).

AI tools can collect and analyze vast amounts of data on student performance, can identify patterns and trends. Teachers can apply these insights to their instructional decisions, intervention strategies and in allocating and using resources. They can also use AI tools to automate grading and provide feedback on assignments (Gupta, D. 2023).  Administrative tasks such as emailing, attendance tracking and scheduling can be streamlined using AI tools, so teachers can have more time to focus on teaching and providing individualized support to students. AI can monitor student engagement and help teachers in identifying students who may need additional support, encouragement or guidance (Pl, 2020)

There are also certain challenges that come with using AI in education. Since AI collects and uses student data, there are always privacy and security concerns being raised about it and also about the responsible use of the collected data (Bailey, 2023). AI generated content can sometimes lack the quality and depth of human – created materials so it might need the expertise of a teacher to carefully review it before implementing it. Students and teachers can both become overly reliant on AI tools, and this could stifle learning, especially the development of critical thinking and problem solving (Bailey, 2023). Also access to AI tools may not be equitable which means that not all teachers and educational institutions will be able to use it, and that could lead to educational disparities based on socioeconomic factors (Bailey, 2023). Such considerations must be carefully addressed for responsibly and effectively using AI in educational settings. 

In summary, AI has the potential to transform the education system by automating some of the routine tasks, present a more enhanced learning experience, provide invaluable insights and make learning more engaging and efficient. However, it cannot be denied that teachers will remain at the heart of the educational process guiding, supporting, nurturing and inspiring students. The expertise and empathy of a teacher cannot be replaced but it can be combined with the power of AI as a tool to enhance teaching and learning experiences. 

References

Bailey, J (2023). AI in Education. Education Next. Retrieved from https://www.educationnext.org/a-i-in-education-leap-into-new-era-machine-intelligence-carries-risks-challenges-promises/

Gupta, D. (2023). 10 ways AI in education is transforming the industry. Appinventiv. Retrieved from https://appinventiv.com/blog/10-ways-artificial-intelligence-transforming-the-education-industry/

Jones (Colburn), M. (1985). Applications of artificial intelligence within education. Computers & Mathematics with Applications, Volume 11, Issue 5, Pages 517-526. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0898122185900549)

McCarthy, J. (2007). “What is artificial intelligence?” Stanford University. Retrieved from https://www-formal.stanford.edu/jmc/whatisai.pdf

Pl, L. (2020). 5 main roles of Artificial intelligence in Education. eLearning Industry. Retrieved from 

https://elearningindustry.com/5-main-roles-artificial-intelligence-in-education

Stormy, P. (2023). How AI in education can enhance the learning process. Fast Company. Retrieved from https://www.fastcompany.com/90946322/how-ai-in-education-can-enhance-the-learning-process#:~:text=By%20actively%20engaging%20with%20AI,experience%20rather%20than%20replacing%20it.

Zhai, X., Chu X., ChingSing, C., Jong, M.S.Y., Istenic, A., Spector, M., Liu, J., Yuan, J. & Li, Y. (2021). “A review of Artificial intelligence (AI) in education from 2010 to 2020.” Complexity, Vol. 2021. Retrieved from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/complexity/2021/8812542/