Why Artificial Intelligence won’t Revolutionise Learning

In the realm of education, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked great expectations, particularly in the form of generative AI, touted as the herald of an educational revolution. The potential is undeniable, yet the transformative power of this technology is inherently linked to our ability to effectively leverage its capabilities. For decades, the primary focus has been on refining instructional design as a means to bolster knowledge acquisition among learners. However, this conventional approach has inadvertently generated passivity among students, leaving them unaware of their own learning needs and devoid of autonomous study techniques.

Uncovering the Limitations of Current Approaches

Generative AI has been championed as the savior, poised to empower individuals and institutions in fostering creativity and enhancing problem-solving skills. This optimistic perspective, while alluring, requires a deeper understanding—not just of the technology itself but of our roles as learners within the educational context. The missing link lies in acknowledging the mistakes entrenched in current instructional and learning experience design, which generative AI might not entirely rectify. Unearthing and comprehending these crucial gaps is imperative in realising the true potential of AI in education.

The Need for Active Engagement in Learning

The fundamental challenge lies in the predominant focus on instructional methodologies rather than recognising the intricate cognitive processes essential for effective learning. To foster authentic learning, it’s crucial that learners are actively engaged, a facet that cannot be wholly addressed or resolved solely by the advancements in generative AI’s content delivery mechanisms. Instructional designers must relinquish some control and provide learners with the freedom to actively participate in the learning process for genuine learning to take place.

The Role of Educational Self-Awareness

As AI becomes more integrated into education, why does educational self-awareness become more important than ever before? Understanding one’s unique learning styles, preferences, and requirements will play a pivotal role in harnessing the potential of generative AI. Embracing educational self-awareness will empower both educators and learners to effectively utilize AI tools, allowing for personalized learning experiences that cater to individual needs, learning speeds, and cultural diversity.

Preparing for the AI-Driven Educational Revolution

The impending revolution in education, driven by AI, necessitates a comprehensive preparation not only for educators but also for learners. How can we prepare ourselves and our learners for this transformative phase in education? Reimagining pedagogical approaches is essential. Educators must shift from being mere content deliverers to mentors, guiding students towards personalized learning paths. This transformation requires not only technological integration but also a shift in the educational ethos, calling for a revamp in teaching methodologies and an emphasis on adaptability and collaboration.

The OEB ’23 Conference: Shaping the Future of Education

Amidst this transformative landscape, the upcoming OEB ’23 conference promises an enriching platform for insightful discussions. Join me for the ‘Renewing Our Focus on Non-replicable Skills to Outperform Machines’ panel and participate in the invaluable dialogue that is shaping the future of education.

Written for OEB Global 2023 by Katarzyna Kowalik.