How is AI changing the education landscape today? We are seeing technology change the way students learn yet we need to find balance between the human and computer element by starting with a short identification of benefits and risks. AI can be used to benefit learners by personalizing learning and freeing teacher time but we also need to acknowledge the bias and disadvantages of reducing human interaction. Community and connections are necessary and cannot be replaced by technology despite the benefits of AI.
In line with our teaching philosophy, we believe students learn best and most effectively with human interaction whether coaching, tutoring, or guided instruction. Repetition and reinforcement through practice is invaluable and can be done with many online tools such as DuoLingo, Khan Academy, and BrainPOP, but engagement is best with other learners and a human expert. Interacting with humans also helps with social skills, emotional regulation, and fostering community. With developments in AI, technology has become an expert and, in many cases, faster than humans at offering instruction and sharing information. It is important to understand that AI is a tool just like coding is a tool for development of young minds.
AI is transforming education, offering exciting possibilities for students and teachers alike. From personalized learning to automated grading, AI is making learning more efficient—but it also comes with challenges. Here's a short list of benefits and risks.
Benefit: Personalized Learning for Every Student
AI can adapt to individual learning styles, providing customized lessons and exercises. Struggling with algebra? AI can slow things down and offer extra practice. Excelling in science? It can push you ahead with advanced topics. This tailored approach helps students learn at their own pace.
Benefit: Less Administrative Work for Teachers
AI-powered tools can grade quizzes, track student progress, and even generate lesson plans. By automating these tasks, teachers can spend more time engaging with students, offering support, and focusing on creative teaching methods instead of drowning in paperwork.
Benefit: Inclusion for All Learners
AI-powered tools can make education more inclusive by assisting students with disabilities. Features like speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and real-time translations help students with hearing, vision, or language barriers fully engage with learning materials. AI can open doors for students who may otherwise struggle with traditional teaching methods.
Risk: AI Can Contain Bias
AI systems learn from data, and if that data is biased, the AI may reinforce inequalities in education. For example, some AI-powered grading systems have been found to favor certain writing styles or dialects over others. If not carefully monitored, AI could unintentionally disadvantage some students rather than leveling the playing field.
Risk: Over-Reliance on Technology
AI is a powerful tool, but it shouldn’t replace critical thinking, problem-solving, or human interaction. Too much dependence on AI-driven learning could reduce students’ ability to think independently or collaborate with peers. The best approach is to use AI as a supplement—not a replacement—for traditional learning methods.
Risk: Costs and Accessibility Gaps
Not all schools or students have equal access to AI-powered tools. High-quality AI programs often require expensive technology and strong internet connections, which may not be available in all communities. If not addressed, this digital divide could widen the gap between well-funded and underfunded schools.
Final Thoughts
AI has the potential to revolutionize education, making learning more accessible and engaging. But it’s essential to balance its benefits with the risks. When used wisely, AI can support both students and educators—without replacing the human element that makes education truly meaningful.