Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom: Pros and Cons – Times ...
Whether it’s in the form of digital assistants like Siri and Alexa or a Facebook video of a cat clumsily dancing on two legs, there’s no doubt that AI — artificial intelligence — is increasingly common in our everyday lives. That includes education.
Pros of AI in the Classroom
According to Vallejo City Unified School District I.T. Director Winston Crump, AI in the classroom can aid with skill development, critical thinking, coding, and digital literacy. Students these days learn quick and they like the information quick. Since AI utilizes shortcuts, it helps them identify and understand at a lot faster pace. AI also makes learning more engaging and relevant.
For staff, AI can function as an assistant, helping with automated tasks like grading, scheduling attendance, and classroom management. This leads to improved efficiency and time management, which can be put back into teaching.
Cons of AI in the Classroom
On the students’ side, over-reliance on AI tools like text summarization or math solvers could hinder independent problem-solving skills and decrease the need for critical thinking. There are also concerns about data privacy, potential equity gaps, and biases embedded in certain AI systems.
Staff also have fears about job concerns, with the potential for AI to replace their roles or those of administrative staff. The use of AI requires policies and procedures to prevent misuse and ensure best practices are followed.
Conclusion
Implementing new technology like AI in the classroom requires a meticulous approach. It is essential to research and vet AI systems thoroughly before approval. While there are both pros and cons to using AI in education, the careful integration of AI tools can lead to more personalized learning and improved efficiency in the long run.
