Unplugged Education: UAE Schools Say No to AI Chatbots

Published On Sun Feb 23 2025
Unplugged Education: UAE Schools Say No to AI Chatbots

UAE Schools Restrict AI-Powered Chatbots Like ChatGPT - Human Online

UAE schools are taking decisive action by blocking AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT to ensure students maintain academic integrity and develop independent thinking skills. Educators are increasingly concerned that the rise of AI tools may hinder problem-solving, creativity, and genuine learning, leading to a dependency that could impact students’ future success. By restricting these technologies, schools aim to foster critical thinking and prevent students from relying on digital shortcuts for their assignments and assessments.

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Initiatives Taken by Schools

To reinforce this initiative, schools have introduced workshops and training sessions that educate students about the risks of excessive AI use. Oral exams, independent research projects, and handwritten assessments are now being prioritized to evaluate students’ true capabilities without AI intervention. Teachers emphasize that while AI has benefits, unchecked reliance on it can distort assessments and mislead students about their understanding of various subjects.

Expert Opinions

Education professionals have voiced strong opinions on the matter. Ibrahim Baraka, principal of Al-Shu’la Private School in Sharjah, pointed out that ChatGPT does not truly comprehend the topics it discusses but instead generates responses based on patterns, which can mislead students into believing they are acquiring reliable knowledge. Media personality and activist Ibrahim Al-Thahli warned that over-dependence on AI could erode students’ ability to innovate and problem-solve independently, skills essential for both academia and the workplace. Similarly, journalist Adel Al-Rashed stressed that students who use AI-generated content without engaging with the material miss out on crucial learning experiences, while legal expert Fatima Al-Niyadi emphasized that education should focus on teaching students how to think critically rather than just extract information without analysis.

School Policies

In response, schools have implemented new policies, including frequent traditional assessments to ensure independent work, AI awareness workshops to educate students on responsible use, and a greater emphasis on oral and handwritten assignments to accurately gauge student comprehension. While AI tools offer undeniable benefits, UAE schools are committed to striking a balance between technological innovation and authentic learning, ensuring students develop the essential skills needed for their academic and professional futures.

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