Artificial Intelligence in the Future of Education

Artificial Intelligence in the Future of Education

AI as a tool to enhance student learning

Personalization has been identified as a crucial approach through which technology can enhance education. Artificial Intelligence (AI) acts as a powerful framework for strengthening the adaptability of educational technologies. With AI, digital learning tools can better understand learners’ current levels, leverage their abilities, and foster the growth of their knowledge and competencies. Owing to AI’s capacity to interpret natural forms of input and the robust foundations of its models, it serves as an exceptional resource for extending adaptive learning opportunities to students.

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes integrated into educational settings, two broad perspectives emerge regarding its role in education:

• AI as a tool to enhance student learning
• AI as a subject of learning itself, focusing on understanding AI and related technologies.

However, it is equally essential for students to understand AI, critically analyze its impact on education and society, and reflect on its significance and potential influence in their personal lives and future careers.

Key Questions Shaping the Future of AI in Education

With continuous advancements in the foundations of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the possibilities for leveraging AI to enhance learning are expanding rapidly. As we explore these emerging opportunities, the following open questions warrant ongoing reflection and careful consideration:

• How effectively is AI supporting adaptation to students’ strengths rather than focusing solely on their weaknesses?
• To what extent are young learners involved in decisions about adopting and using AI tools for learning?
• Is AI narrowing the scope of student activities?
• Does AI support the development of the whole learner, including social and emotional dimensions of learning?
• When AI systems are implemented, how well are students’ privacy and data safeguarded?
• What mechanisms exist to monitor student use of AI for potential barriers, bias, or unintended negative outcomes?
• Is there rigorous research or evaluation available on the educational impact of AI systems?

Key Considerations Regarding the Role of AI in Teaching

As leaders in both pre-service and in-service teacher education consider how AI can enhance teaching—alongside policymakers, developers, and researchers—we encourage everyone in the educational ecosystem to dedicate more time to exploring these questions:

• Is AI enhancing the quality of teachers’ day-to-day work?
• Does classroom AI provide teachers with deeper insights?
• When AI is deployed to support teaching or enhance instruction, are safeguards against excessive monitoring and surveillance adequate?
• To what extent can teachers influence and make decisions that promote equity, reduce bias, and increase cultural responsiveness in the application of AI-enabled tools and systems?

AI can make us faster, but it cannot make us wiser. It's up to us to grow the judgment, resilience, and creativity that no system can 'return.— Brian Eno

While AI can support learning and teaching, it cannot yet replicate the nuanced judgment, creativity, and emotional understanding of human educators. Careful oversight, ethical use, and critical reflection are essential to maximize its benefits while minimizing risks.