It’s 2024, I am reflecting on a study from 2022 that found that nearly 60% of educators embraced technology in their teaching methods, influenced by their experiences during the remote learning era. This adaptation marked a significant shift in the educational landscape, underlining a willingness to integrate more advanced technologies like #AI into learning environments.

dAI, an ever-evolving field, is poised to transform educational practices. It is no longer a far-fetched concept reminiscent of scenes from the movie “RV,” where the Munros, a typical American family, grappled with finding an internet connection in remote locations. Unlike those days, AI’s role in education today extends beyond mere connectivity. It is about using AI thoughtfully and responsibly, ensuring it doesn’t perpetuate biases. As we stand, AI is a fundamental part of our daily lives and is on an upward trajectory of improvement.

At the #WEF conference, Dr. Marlena Corcoran highlighted the dual nature of AI in education – it presents both risks and opportunities. As the government officials from Slovenia and UAE joined the tech leaders,  for a panel discussion, themed “Education Meets AI: Artificial Intelligence as the Driving Force for the Economy and Society,” opened a discourse on AI’s potential to personalize learning and tutoring, while also addressing the risks it poses in educational settings. Three critical issues emerged from these discussions:

• dAI’s Expansive Learning Environment: AI extends learning beyond traditional classrooms, eliminating age and physical space as barriers. This paradigm shift means that learning can occur anywhere and at any time, facilitated by AI technologies.
• Combating Bias in dAI: There’s a pressing need to remain vigilant against biases in AI, particularly in data collection. Ensuring AI’s neutrality and fairness is crucial in an educational context.
• Critical Thinking and dAI: The most crucial aspect is fostering critical thinking skills in evaluating and interacting with AI. This involves understanding not only the technology but also its implications in various aspects of life.

Beyond these issues, it’s vital to recognize the role of digital literacy in an AI-driven world. This literacy extends from basic digital skills required for everyday tasks like banking and home delivery to more complex understandings like utility consumption. Educational institutions play a pivotal role here, not just in imparting knowledge but in equipping learners with the skills to understand and leverage AI effectively.

Furthermore, workforce upskilling in digital competencies is imperative. Training programs initiated by educational institutions can prepare individuals for a world where AI is integral, ensuring they are not only users but informed participants in an AI-driven society.

At #WEF, discussions also extended to the realms of information and disinformation in the age of AI. This highlights the importance of critical thinking and data literacy. As AI continues its rapid ascent, it transitions from a tool for automation to one for augmentation. A prime example is #Amazon‘s warehouses, where AI initially automated routine tasks but now augments human capabilities. AI-powered robots work alongside human employees to optimize operations, exemplifying AI’s transformative potential.

The role of universities and educational institutions is multifaceted in democratizing dAI. They are not only the hubs for developing AI technologies but also for imparting the necessary skills and ethical frameworks to use AI responsibly. This involves training in digital literacy, critical thinking, and understanding the broader societal implications of dAI. As dAI reshapes our world, education is the key to ensuring that this technology is accessible, equitable, and beneficial for all.