Learning with AI

How AI might transform learning and teaching

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology might transform the way we learn and teach in high schools. Important and long held goals of improving learning and increasing equity could be on the horizon. From personalized learning to 24/7 availability, AI has the potential to revolutionize education in ways we never thought possible. This blog post explores some ways AI could change our current schools and the lives of students and teachers.

Personalizing Learning

One of the most exciting developments in AI technology is its ability to personalize learning for students. AI programs could analyze the work of a student in real time and create an individualized learning plan for this student. The language learning program Duolingo is an early example of this capability. As I do Spanish lessons, the app notes my mistakes and gives me further practice on this concept. Much work remains, but adaptive learning programs show great promise. Students can learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they need the most help.

Personalized learning also increases student engagement and achievement, as well as improving the overall school experience. By using AI to individualize learning, schools and teachers can provide each student with the support and guidance they need to succeed.

Making Learning Available 24/7

Another benefit of AI in education is that it can make learning available to students 24/7. With online learning platforms and mobile apps, students can access learning materials and resources anytime, anywhere. Students can work more quickly through content they understand well and spend more time to work on areas where they need to improve. Research consistently shows that keeping students at the edge of their current abilities makes learning more fun and more effective.

24/7 availability also means that students can learn on their own schedule. Students who have outside commitments such as work, family responsibilities, or extracurricular activities could now design a learning schedule for their unique needs. Also, students who may have difficulty attending school because of illness, disability, or other factors can still stay on track with their education. By making learning available around the clock, AI could help every student succeed.

Rapid Tutoring Help

AI technology can also make tutoring help quickly available to students who don’t have to wait for a teacher who is working with other students. With virtual tutoring and chatbots, students can get help with their homework and assignments on-demand. This can be especially helpful for students who may feel uncomfortable asking for help in front of their peers.

Virtual tutoring also means that students can get help from a variety of sources, not just their teacher. The whole world and the virtual world become their classroom. How can this not help to broaden their knowledge and understanding of a subject and expose them to new ideas and perspectives?

Caveat

However, it’s important to note that AI is not a magic solution that can solve all the challenges facing education today. As with any technology, it has its limitations and problems that need to be addressed. Teachers and educators must collaborate with educational technologists and policymakers to ensure they implement AI ethically and responsibly. AI must not substitute for human interaction and support in the learning process.

Ultimately, the goal of education should be to provide every student with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed in life. By using AI in thoughtful and innovative ways, we can help level the playing field. We can work toward providing equal opportunities for all students. With the right implementation and continued refinement, AI technology can help create a more efficient and effective education system that maximizes student potential and unlocks new opportunities for learning and growth.

In the end, the real question is, how do we get well-designed, research-based AI-powered learning tools to all students as soon as possible? As we continue to explore the potential of AI in education, it is essential that we remain focused on our ultimate goal of empowering students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. With the right approach, we can leverage the power of AI to help students achieve their full potential and build a brighter future for us all.