The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) presents several new and exciting opportunities for improving the quality of education. While several ways of integrating AI into schooling have been explored, only a few consider changing traditional school operations and educational practices.

A study by Professor Yong Zhao from the University of Kansas explored more radical changes that may be applied to traditional schooling to fully utilize AI technology's potential to benefit students.

According to Professor Zhao, numerous publications have appeared, all trying to suggest, recommend, and predict the future of AI uses in education. However, regardless of their scholarly quality, most discussions are primarily focused on using AI in the traditional arrangement of schools.

Potential of technology

The study investigates a broader view of possible changes that can be applied to the current schooling system. The research suggests ways of better utilizing AI technology's potential and also deals with leveraging AI to support personalized learning. The study notes that although personalized learning has demonstrated benefits, it has not been widely implemented in schools in its true sense. AI tools present a unique opportunity to implement personalized learning customized to individual student needs and harness their talents and potential.

Traditional schooling systems aim to create members of the workforce. However, AI has disrupted the job market, eliminating traditional career roles and creating new ones. In the research, Professor Zhao noted that focusing on and building on each child's innate talents and unique strengths is essential for success in any career. Since any potential talent, when sufficiently honed, is valuable in the age of AI, he argued that educational systems must focus on students' strengths rather than their weaknesses.

Furthermore, the study suggested that traditional curricula might need to change to accommodate personalized education. Students could use AI and other resources to follow their interests and passions. This might also eliminate the requirement for age-based classes and promote learning with tools, resources, experts, and peers aligned with the same interests rather than age.

Benefits of integrating AI

Besides personalized education, AI can also effectively facilitate project-based learning. The article noted that AI tools can help schools inculcate skills such as problem-solving and independent thinking in students, transforming them into individuals with critical thinking and analytical skills.

Integrating AI into the education system will also transform the role of teachers. They would become coaches and mentors working with the students to help them identify their strengths and potential and guide them to become the best versions of themselves. They would also need to be updated on AI tools and help students utilize AI as a learning partner.

According to Professor Zhao, AI is no doubt a powerful technology, but it is easy to underestimate its power. Its use in the traditional classroom to assist students and teachers in learning and teaching helps, but it also minimizes the transformative power of AI.

Phys Org