AI is unavoidable in the classroom

It’s vital to embrace AI as a learning tool rather than a crutch. | photo from dasa.fiu.edu

Ariana Rodriguez | Staff Writer

The use of artificial intelligence is growing now more than ever and has found its way into the classroom. From students using Chat GPT to Grammarly to draft their papers, AI seems completely unavoidable. 

AI integration is rapidly rising, from AI-powered platforms to machine learning for data analysis. However, as students and professors navigate this new technology, it’s crucial to strike a balance between harnessing AI as a valuable learning tool and preserving the integrity of education.

Amidst the excitement surrounding AI’s potential, it’s essential to approach it with caution. While AI can augment learning experiences, it should not replace critical thinking, creativity or human interaction. 

Students must actively engage with AI tools rather than relying on them to do the work for them. Similarly, professors should leverage AI to enhance their teaching methodologies, not as a substitute for their expertise and instructional guidance.

While navigating this new technology may be difficult, it’s just another hurdle for higher education to jump over.

One of the primary concerns with excessive reliance on AI in education is the danger that students will become overly dependent on AI for tasks. They risk missing out on the cognitive benefits of grappling with challenges independently. 

Likewise, if professors rely on AI to generate lectures or assessments, it diminishes the personalization and spontaneity that characterize effective teaching.

There are also ethical considerations to contemplate when incorporating AI into the classroom. Bias in AI algorithms, violating the school’s honor code and lying that the AI’s work is one’s own are all valid issues that demand attention. 

Students and professors must critically evaluate the ethical implications of AI applications in education and strive to mitigate potential risks through transparency.

Professors should set clear guidelines and educate students on AI ethics while stressing the importance of transparency of using AI as a tool.

It’s vital to embrace AI as a learning tool rather than a crutch. Utilize AI-powered resources to supplement your learning and teaching objectives, but don’t let it overshadow your active participation and intellectual engagement. 

When approaching AI we should view it as a means to enhance our skills and understanding rather than a shortcut to success.

AI can serve as an educational tool by providing feedback, facilitating adaptive learning experiences and generating insights from large datasets. It can offer students additional resources tailored to their individual needs, allowing them to explore concepts at their own pace. 

By striking this balance, students and professors can maximize the benefits of AI while ensuring that education remains an intellectually stimulating endeavor. 

As AI continues to reshape the educational landscape, FIU remains at the forefront. Preparing students to embrace the opportunities and challenges presented by this transformative technology by offering a masters degree in AI.

Representatives from FIU also addressed attendees at the Florida AI Policy Summit, outlining their intention to enact thorough regulations governing artificial intelligence. Fonseca, the director of the Gordon Institute, emphasized that Florida must confront and address the far-reaching implications of AI across various sectors.

Rather than debating the good and bad of AI, it should be less about banning and more about regulating which is the best approach to AI. 

While we need to keep our fingers on the pulse with the speedy nature of AI, we must also remain vigilant about the ethical implications of AI in education. 

Stay informed about emerging issues and actively participate in discussions surrounding AI ethics. Advocate for transparency in AI-driven educational initiatives to ensure that technology serves the best interests of all learners.

By approaching AI with a balanced perspective, harnessing its benefits while mitigating potential risks, we can leverage technology to enhance educational outcomes and prepare students for success in a rapidly evolving world.

DISCLAIMER:

The opinions presented on this page do not represent the views of the PantherNOW Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or members of the University community.

About Post Author