KATHMANDU, AUGUST 15
We are at the beginning of the golden age of artificial intelligence (AI), and we've only scratched the surface of what's possible. AI is a tool. How it gets deployed is totally ours. AI is not a futuristic vision but rather something that is here today and impacting the future of virtually every industry and every human being.
As the main driver of emerging technologies like big data robotics and Internet of things, AI in education can transform learning. Teachers can achieve the best outcome for students from bridging learning gaps to personalisation to streamlining tasks while enabling them to create stimulating learning environments. Since the students of today will need to work in a future where AI is a reality, it is necessary that we expose them to this technology early.
AI is a very valuable tool for teachers in several ways. Teachers can monitor and analyse students' real time progress using AI tools. If AI is brought to the classroom, it will eliminate the physical barriers. Online courses have made it possible for students to study from anywhere, from any part of the country. We are now able to visualise the skills of the best teachers no matter where they are located.
AI can help teachers chart the next course of programme and create a model training session for each student, thus fine-tuning the abilities of every child.
New tools like a child's voice can be used, which can alert the teacher about the emotional well-being of a child. It can lead to a very improved student teacher interaction, even universal access for all students, making classrooms global – available to all anytime.
There are times when students feel a little hesitant to ask questions. That's when AI steps in and makes it easier for both teachers and students. Teachers can give them feedback, and this will help in improving the overall learning environment and motivate those students who need it.
In the recent year we have seen an upsurge of all kinds of technology in the classroom, which has become a norm, even for kindergarteners. The future of learning will be a blended learning ecosystem infused with technology, like virtual or physical made possible by artificial intelligence, immersive technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality.
As AI develops, students can plan their career and paths, and institutions can spot the next generation by investing in artificial intelligence. The future of AI in the field of education is rife with dozens of potential applications that will free up the time for teachers to ensure that students receive the right interventions, the right support, and are able to become independent learners.
A version of this article appears in the print on August 16 2021, of The Himalayan Times.
