Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasing becoming part of our everyday lives.
AI is defined as “computing systems that are able to engage in human-like processes such as learning, adapting, synthesizing, self-correction and use if data for complex processing tasks” (Popenici & Kerr, 2017). Basically, computing systems that can learn from their own experiences.
Examples of current AI include email spam filters, chatbots, voice assistants, plagiarism checkers (Turnitin), predictive search, recommendations, filtering algorithms (Google, Facebook), and facial recognition.
What does this mean for education?
AI tools have a place and use in education. Turnitin, for example, is a tool used to detect plagiarism in student’s assignments. Through machine learning, it also can learn student’s writing style to detect contract cheating. In PowerPoint, the “Designer” tool can help students create dynamic slideshows while the “Rehearse with coach” tool can help students prepare and practice their presentations by identifying certain oral factors.
However, issues can rise as AI tools become “smarter” or more advanced. AI writing tools have been developed that can potentially write a whole assignment. The potential ramifications of the widespread use can be enormous.
Other issues discussed that may arise include:
- Validity of sources
- Authorship
- Confirmation bias
- Monopoly and influence by the “tech-lords”
- Misinformation and disinformation
What can we do?
Suggestions that were discussed include:
- Changing how we teach students – focus on the fundamentals before using/ introducing the AI tool
- Be flexible or use other methods to evaluate skills and core competencies – move away from essay writing to reflection tasks, presentations, or other oral tasks.
Article: Popenici, S. & Kerr, S. (2017). Exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on teaching and learning in higher education. Research and practice in technology enhanced learning, 12(22). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41039-017-0062-8.
Extra article: Emerj. (2020). Everyday examples of artificial intelligence and machine learning. https://emerj.com/ai-sector-overviews/everyday-examples-of-ai/