Evolving Skills for the AI Age
With any kind of change comes a wave of uncertainty and unpredictability. History shows us that it is in these tumultuous moments that opportunities for growth emerge. Today, we stand at such a crossroads with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and other fields.
Generative AI is shaking the educational world, compelling teachers to question and debate: should we embrace AI or resist it?
Darwin’s theory of evolution reminds us, “It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who survive, but those who are most adaptable to change.” This principle is as relevant today as it was in Darwin’s time.
Salman Khan, the founder of Khan Academy, recalls the debates that erupted when calculators first appeared in classrooms. Many questioned whether children needed to master arithmetic skills if machines could do the work for them. Khan firmly believes that a solid foundation in arithmetic is essential for children to use calculators effectively. With this grounding, they can perform calculations both manually and digitally, ensuring their abilities and productivity in a technologically advanced world.
As we integrate AI into education on a larger scale, it’s crucial to remember that these technologies are tools meant to enhance, not replace, human capabilities. AI can be a powerful tool in the hands of a teacher, engaging and motivating students by providing personalized learning experiences and instant feedback.
To leverage AI effectively, students need critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to assess AI-generated content. Teachers should focus on developing these higher-order thinking skills, moving from basic knowledge and understanding to application, synthesis, and creativity. For example, teaching students how to critically evaluate sources and data generated by AI can foster a more nuanced understanding of their subjects.
Generative AI should complement human learning, allowing students with a solid understanding of their subjects to amplify their capabilities. For instance, AI can assist in generating writing prompts, but students must understand writing fundamentals to create coherent essays and assess the output.
For teachers and school leaders, the mission is clear: equip students with robust foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills. This foundation empowers students to apply their understanding of science, math, and literature to use generative AI proficiently.
When technology falters or is unavailable, students with strong foundational skills can confidently tackle challenges. This knowledge enables them to ask insightful questions and seek profound answers. While AI can provide information, the uniquely human ability to critically evaluate and synthesize this information is irreplaceable.
As AI continues to evolve, it is expected to create a synergistic learning environment where both human and artificial intelligence collaborate to foster innovation and solve complex problems. Dr. Justine Brown’s research emphasizes that learners must cultivate a love for learning, strong foundational skills, and an insatiable curiosity. Teachers should inspire students to ask probing questions and explore subjects deeply.
As the world and technology evolve at breakneck speed, teachers must guide students to keep pace with technology, marching confidently into a future where human intelligence and AI collaborate harmoniously.
So, embrace AI to remain ahead of the curve…
About the author: Gayethri Mote is a Teacher Educator and an expert on Learning Skills at Coschool.
