Balancing opportunity with caution
In the dynamic landscape of education, Artificial Intelligence (AI) provides a new era of possibilities. From personalised learning experiences to automated administrative tasks, AI's potential to transform education is immense.
However, the road to integrating AI in classrooms is fraught with challenges that educators, policymakers, and tech developers must navigate with care. Matt Hammond, Founder of EdTech firm Talk Think Do, has given his expert insights on the topic.
AI in the classroom
Interactions between teachers and students are one the most vital aspects of education, and AI certainly creates the opportunity for those essential exchanges to take place. By using AI to save time and improve existing efficiencies, teachers can dedicate more time to their students.
Matt said: “It is undeniable that improving the amount of time teachers can spend with each student will only lead to improved engagement, relationships, and learning opportunities. Schools should look to implement AI-driven tools that can take on administrative tasks or create customised learning materials for teachers to utilise in the classroom. Improving the efficiency of admin tasks would create more time for student interaction, enhancing the quality of education provided to students.”
Trust and privacy concerns
A recent Government-led survey on GenAI in education*1 highlighted how many schools lack trust in widely-used AI tools like OpenAI and Google Bard. Teachers expressed concerns that implementing these tools as a key learning resource could result in tech giants exercising undue power over student’s education.
Matt said: “It comes as no surprise that schools are harbouring concerns regarding the privacy and data controls that come with adopting AI. Generally speaking, this could relate directly to the lack of government regulation on AI policy across the board. There are clearly concerns in many sectors, including education, that the government could become over-reliant on big tech organisations, and this is raising significant barriers to the adoption of AI in schools.
“To mitigate these concerns, schools should actively seek alternative models and ways to integrate AI into the curriculum that don’t depend on established AI players. Emerging tools such as 'Whiteboard AI' and 'Teach Anything’ are viable options. These tools can offer students enhanced learning experiences, streamline study processes, and assist with research. It’s worth noting that they may also alleviate the feelings of risk and concern many teachers have related to privacy and data control.
Equipping students for the future
Commenting on developing AI literacy in school, Matt added: “Students need to leave school suitably prepared for a future dominated by digital technologies. In the coming years, companies will increasingly seek AI skills, and students lacking experience with these tools may find themselves at a disadvantage in the job market. The only way to address this is to establish and put in place a robust, safe, and evolving education policy for the implementation of AI in school curriculums.
“Schools need to recognise that education must go beyond traditional teaching methods to equip students with the skills to shape the future.
“By integrating AI into the curriculum, educators can ensure that students are not just consumers of technology, but also creators and innovators that leverage the tools for the benefit of society as a whole. This shift is crucial for fostering a generation of learners who are adept at navigating and contributing to the evolving world.”
About Talk Think Do
Talk Think Do was founded in 2014 to help customers achieve their goals by delivering advanced cloud-native applications. Talk Think Do’s experienced team of analysts and engineers turn ambitious ideas into final products.
Talk Think Do is proud to have several technical partnerships including with:
- Microsoft Solutions Partner
- GitHub
- Learnosity
- Vonage (Connect Integration Partner)
- DQ Global
- Just After Midnight
- Crown Commercial Service