In the wake of the rapid advancements in generative AI technologies, the discourse surrounding artificial intelligence has become a subject of intense controversy. From concerns about AI replacing creative jobs to its potential to compromise student integrity through cheating, apprehensions abound. However, amidst these fears, it’s important to understand that there's much more to embrace than there is to fear!
In this episode, Where AI Embraces the Learner (Episode 123), Aman Sahota, co-founder of Factors (formerly known as Ei Amplified), invites us to explore the myriad ways in which AI can currently revolutionize education. Join us as we delve into the positive impacts AI can have on the present educational landscape and its role in shaping a promising future of learning.
Here are the key ideas we took away from this episode:
- AI, as a technology, requires human programming for its operation. Unfortunately, the tech industry's lack of diversity has resulted in implicit biases within AI. Aman Sahota aims to address this issue by advocating for diverse voices to be included, thereby correcting biases and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the AI space.
- Sahota is deeply immersed in the intersection of AI, empathy, and equity. Through his award-winning company, Factors, he endeavors to level the educational playing field. The company collects qualitative data utilizing AI to measure emotions through text, gaining insights into the needs of students and teachers. This approach allows for more dynamic, frequent, and efficient data collection and the implementation of action plans compared to traditional school models.
- Despite the prevalent negative bias towards AI, Sahota highlights its potential for helpful and creative applications. For instance, combining generative AI with analytical AI presents a promising model to better support students. Analytical AI helps understand students' needs, and generative AI facilitates the provision of tailored resources, showcasing the positive impact of AI in education.
- Addressing the challenge of keeping students current and connected to AI, Sahota suggests strategies for accessibility and equity. These include maintaining low costs, aligning the curriculum with AI, incorporating experiential learning through AI projects, and ensuring AI is integrated as a tool within the curriculum for all students.
- Envisioning a bright future for AI, Sahota sees a deeper societal embrace of this technology. He believes unlocking AI's power will lead to more personalized learning. Continuous integration of AI into web apps, expanding capabilities of conversational chatbots, and companies training employees to utilize AI will contribute to creating more efficient, time-saving systems.
While the widespread acceptance of AI may take time, it is reminiscent of the transformative internet wave in the 90s, destined to persist and evolve rapidly. It’s imperative that schools embrace AI with a sense of urgency, starting with the creation of AI policy. Collaborative efforts between edtech companies and educational institutions can ensure that AI remains accessible, low-cost, and user-friendly for both educators and students. It's a unanimous belief that AI, while never intended to replace the human element, holds immense potential to streamline tasks, save time, enhance curriculum development, and ultimately bring about positive changes in the educational landscape. As we navigate this evolving frontier, fostering a proactive approach to integrating AI into education is essential for realizing its benefits in a transformative and equitable manner.
Check out the full podcast for all the details: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts
Don’t forget to listen to three of our podcasts from our themed choice boards to earn 0.5 of CEU credit. Simply submit this form when you finish.
Explore Further:
- Connect with Aman on LinkedIn