VR AI artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently transitioned from fiction books and screenplays to being an everyday reality. We have AI operating in our cell phones, assisting us in driving cars, enhancing health in hospitals, and transforming the way we teach. As schools get on board with AI tools and platforms globally, the question arises: Will AI in the classroom make children better learners, or will it become an issue down the line?
Computer programs and computers that mimic human behaviour are referred to as artificial intelligence. Teaching is where this manifests as chatbots that provide answers, software that adapts lessons according to what the learners can do, and automatic grading systems. ChatGPT, Grammarly, Duolingo, and Khan Academy are a few examples of the tools. They help learners with writing, languages, and exercises. They work without pause instantly, and most of them do not cost money, which makes them appealing to learners and educators.
The major advantage of AI being available in schools is that it allows for individualized learning. Everyone learns the same thing in normal classrooms, but AI can adjust to suit every individual’s requirements. If a student is weak in algebra but excellent in geometry, for instance, an AI program can provide them with additional support in algebra and fewer in geometry. Not only do they learn better but they become interested as well since the subject matter aligns with their strengths.
Teachers stand to benefit from AI, too. They do not have to take so much time to correct papers since AI assists with grammar check, grading, and feedback. The intelligent programs can even monitor the progress of the learners and discover where some of them struggle. This assists the main instructors to step in on time and provide additional assistance where necessary. AI assists in the generation of customized lesson plans in some schools, which saves the educators time and energy.
While there is a lot of good that can come from using AI in the classroom, there are significant concerns about the manner in which it is being employed—particularly when individuals overdepend on these resources. The most significant concern is that students overrely on them. As children increasingly use AI to write essays, complete homework, or summarize, they may no longer think for themselves. This may make them better performers on tests, but it compromises their actual learning and grasp of the subject matter. Eventually, this will impair their critical thinking, problem-solving, and their ability to communicate themselves in their own words—something in which they will have to do as adults.
Another issue is accuracy. AI tools such as ChatGPT can be useful, but they can be incorrect or provide incorrect information occasionally. If the students who don’t know about these errors come across them, they could end up with incorrect facts. A scientist may describe something that sounds good but that incorporates small errors which alter the meaning. If the student passes this on without verification, those errors become part of the process. There should be fairness in this area as well. There are some for whom AI tools can be accessed at home with good internet connections, but there are those who might have to share a phone or don’t have enough data. This creates a distance between AI users and those who can’t access it. This needs to be addressed by schools so that every student can access technology; otherwise, the distance will increase, not decrease.
It’s a major issue about privacy. As most AI software collects users’ information such as what they search for, what they write, and what they click on, that data if not secured could fall into the wrong hands, such as corporations or hackers. Children do not always know the amount of information they unintentionally share when they use this software. Programs and schools should have stricter regulations for safeguarding data, and they should make those rules well known to children.
Last but not least, there is the danger of losing the human element. Teaching isn’t merely imparting information; it’s talking, questioning, and relating to people. A good educator does not simply provide facts; they inspire, motivate, and respond to feelings and behaviors. AI cannot provide this human element. If learning becomes too mechanized, something will be lost that’s precious: the pleasure of learning with one another.
Is AI beneficial or detrimental to the classroom? The reality is, both. Similar to all tools, their usefulness relies on the manner in which they’re being employed. When utilized properly, AI can enhance teaching by personalizing, streamlining, and simplifying learning. AI can assist educators and learners, increase the confidence of learners, and fill learning gaps. When improperly or excessively employed, AI can lead to laziness, confusion, unfairness, and isolation. Success occurs when there is a degree of balance. Students must be proficient in the use of AI for answers, but they must also invent their own ideas, verify facts, and develop their own knowledge.
Teachers must make the students realize that AI can be a tool to aid them, not an escape from their responsibility. School districts have to ensure all the students use these tools in a manner that privacy and security come foremost. Also, artificial intelligence is a calculator; it makes things faster but does not eliminate the skill of being good at calculations. Likewise, AI will aid learning but will not take the place of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. If we use AI with care and wisdom, AI will prove to be very useful in the classroom. If we allow AI to do the teaching, though, we will silently stop actual learning from occurring.
By: Suriya Dev Saravanakumar
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