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Generally, when consumers think of AI, they think of applications that can make decisions or hold a conversation. However, an essential aspect here to understand is how influential AI is becoming in the way we learn and understand new things. In the education landscape, technology is rapidly changing. Machine learning and AI are changing the education sector in numerous ways. The use of AI can benefit both students as well as educators. AI can provide students with personalised learning experiences, automate repetitive tasks and provide instant feedback.
In our article below, we will be discussing the pros and cons of AI as a tool in classroom, while discussing the threats it can pose for the learning community.
Among the main advantages that AI provides in classrooms is personalised learning. AI-powered tools can allow in analysing student performance and provide tailored support to improve students’ grades. It can even provide instant feedback. AI can also allow in automating repetitive tasks. Grading of assignments and quizzes can ease up the burden on teachers, freeing up their time which they can use for other tasks such as lesson planning and providing more one-on-one attention to students.
Tutoring systems when powered with virtual assistants can provide immediate and personalised support to students. These systems identify areas where a student is lagging and provides them additional practise. Moreover, AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of educational data, including student performance, engagement, and behaviour, to generate valuable insights. These insights can help teachers identify learning gaps, predict student outcomes, and make informed instructional decisions to better support student progress. AI technologies can provide accessibility features, such as text-to-speech and speech recognition, to support students with different learning abilities. It can also translate content into various languages, making education more accessible to diverse population and fostering inclusivity in the classroom. They can even facilitate collaboration and communication among students and teachers. Chatbots, discussion forums, and virtual classrooms equipped with AI can encourage active participation, peer learning, and real-time feedback, promoting an interactive and engaging learning environment.
When it comes to the cons which AI poses, the prime aspect is the belief held by teachers and instructors that AI is a threat to their job, as it will automate their tasks, making them redundant. In relation to this, it is important to note that AI is not meant to replace teachers but rather to assist them in their work. AI is a tool and should be developed and used as such. Adjoining other cons is the cost of developing and implementing AI-powered educational tools. This can be a significant barrier for schools and teachers who need more resources to invest in AI technology. Along with this, AI-powered tools lack the feature of human interaction and emotional support that students generally require. While AI can provide personalised learning and instant feedback, it cannot replace the human and emotional support that students need to succeed.
When it comes to advancing the role of AI in classrooms, Edtech companies play a crucial role in ensuring its ethical and responsible implementation. Here are some ways in which edtech companies can fulfil this role:
Ethical Guidelines and Standards: Edtech companies can establish clear ethical guidelines and standards for the use of AI in education. These guidelines should address issues such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, bias mitigation, and the responsible use of student data. By adhering to these guidelines, edtech companies can prioritize student welfare and ensure that AI technologies are deployed in an ethical manner.
Transparent Algorithms: Edtech companies should strive to make their AI algorithms transparent and explainable. It is important for educators, students, and other stakeholders to understand how AI systems work and make decisions.
Data Privacy and Security: Edtech companies must prioritize the privacy and security of student data. They should implement robust data protection measures, comply with relevant data privacy regulations that relates to them and obtain proper consent for data collection and usage.
Bias Mitigation: AI systems are prone to bias, reflecting the biases present in the data they are trained on. Edtech companies should actively work to identify and mitigate biases in their AI models and algorithms. This involves regular monitoring, testing, and evaluation to ensure fairness and equity in educational outcomes.
Continuous Evaluation and Improvement: Edtech companies should continuously evaluate the impact of AI technologies in the classroom. This involves collecting feedback from teachers, students, and educational experts to identify any unintended consequences or issues. Regular evaluation allows companies to make improvements and address concerns promptly.
Educator Training and Support: Edtech companies should provide comprehensive training and support to educators to effectively integrate AI tools into their teaching practices. This includes providing resources, professional development opportunities, and ongoing assistance to ensure that teachers can navigate AI technologies confidently and use them to enhance student learning experiences.
Collaboration with Educational Institutions: Edtech companies should actively collaborate with educational institutions, researchers, and policymakers to develop best practices and guidelines for the ethical use of AI in education. By fostering partnerships and engaging in dialogue, companies can contribute to the development of responsible AI policies and frameworks.
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