AI for Learning: Ally or Threat?

When we hear “artificial intelligence”, many people think of talking robots, computers that will replace us or futuristic movies where machines rule the world. Or worse: that we won't need to learn anything anymore because everything will be done for us by an algorithm.

Spoiler: none of that is true... or at least not in the real, educational world.

The truth is that AI, properly used, does not come to take away our brains, nor to replace teachers, nor to make us lazy. On the contrary: it can be a great ally to make learning easier, faster and even more fun, especially if it adapts to our needs.

Imagine you are studying for an exam, and instead of feeling alone in front of a notebook or a fast-moving video, you have someone to explain what you didn't understand, at your pace, without judging you. That is, more or less, the promise of AI in learning.

What is AI?

Artificial intelligence are systems created by people that “learn” from data. They don't have emotions, they don't think like us, but they can do tasks that used to require human intelligence: recognize patterns, predict behaviors, answer questions, give you recommendations... and yes, help you study.

In education, that translates to:

• Platforms that adapt to the way you learn.

• Apps that detect where you are failing and explain it to you with other examples.

• Virtual assistants that answer your questions instantly.

And does it really work?

Yes! And it's not just us saying so. Look at this data:

• In 2022, more than $20 billion will be invested in educational AI worldwide.

• More than 70% of universities in the U.S. already use some form of AI to support learning.

• Students using intelligent platforms typically improve their performance by 8% to 12%, especially in math and science.

Simply put: it's not magic, but it does help.

But not everything is perfect...

Yes, the AI is great... but it also has its tricky side. Here are some points to keep in mind:

• Not everyone has access: many people don't have stable internet or suitable devices.

• It can make mistakes: if fed with incorrect or biased data, it also makes mistakes.

• It does not replace the teacher: it is a tool, not a magic solution.

• What happens to my data? Privacy must be taken care of, especially if we are talking about minors.

How to use AI without fear?

If you are already encouraged to try AI tools, here are some tips:

Use it as a support, not as a substitute. If something doesn't add up, ask questions!

Don't believe everything blindly. Verify the information.

Talk to your teachers. Many are already learning to use these technologies with you.

Share what you learn, so you help others to lose their fear.

So is it good or bad?

Like everything in life: it depends on how it is used.

AI is not coming to take away our jobs, nor to make children no longer think for themselves. But it can make the learning process more fun, accessible and personalized.

Of course, we need clear rules, digital education, and above all, we need to remember that machines help... but we still make the important decisions.

In short

Artificial intelligence is already here. We use it without realizing it when we ask Google something, when Netflix suggests a series, or when the translator saves us with a complicated word.

In education, it can be a great ally. But like any powerful tool, we must know it, use it judiciously... and not be afraid of it!

Some examples

Squirrel AI (China) https://squirrelai.com

A platform that teaches millions of students and adapts to how they learn. If you go fast, it speeds you up. If you go slow, it explains more calmly. It uses a combination of AI and human teachers. The AI handles content adaptation, while the teachers provide personalized support in their learning centers.

MATHia (USA) https://discover.carnegielearning.com/meet-mathia

MathIA is the acronym that identifies the research project "Artificial Intelligence Model to Enrich and Improve Mathematical Competencies in Elementary and Secondary School Students". It is a virtual tutor that provides step-by-step guidance in mathematics. Those who use it get better grades.

Khanmigo (GPT-4) https://www.khanmigo.ai/es/teachers

It is an assistant for students, parents and teachers. It's like having a trusted teacher on your cell phone. It is based on a conversational AI that answers questions as if you were talking to a human.

Where can I learn more?

Here are some recommended links and resources (don't worry, they are in human language!):

UNESCO: Artificial Intelligence in Education

Google Education: Using AI to improve education

Inter-American Development Bank: How to integrate artificial intelligence in education responsibly?

Psicoloíga y Mente: The disadvantages of using AI for Studying and Learning

Brookings Institution: Studies on AI and equitable learning

Audrey Watters: “Teaching Machines” (a critical but fun look)