Will AI replace teachers?

 

AI will not replace teachers. Education thrives not just on content but also on the social environment created by educators in their classrooms. Over time, all disciplines and teaching methods evolve to meet the changing societal and work needs. For instance, the availability of Google and Wikipedia has shown that mere access to information is insufficient for learning. Similarly, MOOCs and online videos haven't replaced classroom teaching. AI will definitely become a valuable resource for educators and students, but educators will remain indispensable.

A 2023 AI Policy Report by the Department of Education emphasizes that people should always be central (DoE Policy Report, 2023). Education is defined more by students, parents, and educators than by technology. While AI can fully automate many tasks in industrial settings, in education, human involvement will remain essential.

Moreover, while AI can provide vast amounts of information, it cannot teach cognition and meta-cognition. Teaching students to think critically at all levels is challenging. Learning is more than just understanding; it also involves practice.  In the online course "Learning How to Learn," Dr. Terrence Sejnowski explains that learning consists of understanding and practicing (Coursera). AI can assist students in both areas, but educators will continue to play a crucial role in facilitating student learning.

If computers excel at a task, perhaps we should not invest significant time in teaching students how to do such a task. Employees worldwide are changing careers due to digitization, robotics, and other technological advancements. If we fail to prepare students for the evolving job market, their job opportunities may be limited.

Since AI is becoming more prevalent and its potential continues to increase, educators who incorporate AI into their teaching will be more effective. They will gradually automate repetitive tasks, allowing themselves to focus on activities that directly contribute to student learning. They will redefine their role to emphasize nurturing collaboration and social-emotional skills, as well as fostering critical and higher-order thinking. With data-driven insights, they will intervene more effectively to support struggling students. In summary, teachers who use AI will replace those who do not.

Image credits: Subodh Dahal (not AI)