Artificial intelligence (AI) in education is no longer just a fantasy. It took just a few months for generative AI and ChatGPT to make a big impact in education.
This new technology has far-reaching implications for learning and teaching, and is embraced by students as a homework aid or as a complete replacement for report writing.
This new technology was so threatening to traditional learning that New York City public schools banned ChatGPT from devices in the school just weeks after its introduction.
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on the other hand, check (CHGG -0.52%), which rents out textbooks and provides homework help, dropped almost 50% in one session after it became clear that competition from ChatGPT was slowing new user growth.
It’s clear that generative AI is transforming education, but it’s just the beginning.
This discussion of AI for Education covers the basics of artificial intelligence and how it impacts education. We will provide some examples of AI in education and discuss how the role of AI in education will shape in the future.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
What is Artificial Intelligence?
When we talk about artificial intelligence, we are referring to the ability of computers and machines to perform tasks normally associated with human intelligence.
This includes everything from machine learning to natural language processing to computer vision to robotics to neural networks.
These days, when most people think of artificial intelligence, they might think of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, but artificial intelligence has been working online and behind the scenes in computer systems for years.
companies like meta platform (meta 2.16%) and Netflix (NFLX -1.18%), which relies on AI recommendations to determine which accounts and movies to display, and Facebook’s parent company also uses AI to screen out images that aren’t allowed, such as nudity.
Additionally, chatbots and voice assistants such as Alexa and Siri are examples of widely used AI systems.
5 ways AI can be used in education
5 ways AI can be used in education
1. AI in translation and language learning
One of the most direct applications of AI in education is translation and language learning.
ChatGPT can handle translations well and works as a language learning tool, helping students to check their work, teach vocabulary, grammar, etc.
Some of the stocks that fell following Chegg’s announcement about the challenge from ChatGPT were: duolingo (Duor 1.16%), a popular language learning app.
Investors worried that Duolingo users would stop paying for the service and instead stick to free AI tools like ChatGPT. However, Duolingo has already integrated some of ChatGPT’s features into their product.
For example, in March 2023, the company launched Duolingo Max, which uses GPT-4 technology to add two new features to Duolingo Super. These features explain incorrect answers to users and provide role-playing capabilities that allow users to practice conversations in different scenarios.
As AI adoption increases, opportunities for AI language learning may also expand.
2. AI in lighting
While some students have already found ChatGPT to be a useful tool for outsourcing their homework, generative AI technology also offers real benefits for students who are learning how to write or are looking to write more clearly.
Grammarly, an AI-based spelling and grammar checker, is one well-known example of AI tools used to aid writing. This program offers advice on clarity, tone and other qualities of writing to improve your writing.
Similarly, ChatGPT and other generative AI programs can rewrite, edit, or modify documents in other ways as needed.
For creative writers, AI tools can also help write prompts, story ideas, dialogue, and other needs. It also helps writing teachers come up with similar ideas that are useful for teaching.
Plagiarism is always unethical, but it would be a mistake for educators to ignore the potential of AI programs to help students become better writers.
3. AI in Early Childhood Education
The existing and potential applications of AI in early childhood education are also diverse.
AI can be used to create interactive games and other educational tools that can teach young children academic and social skills.
Artificial intelligence can also be used to power surveillance systems that help track children’s behavior and gather developmental insights. It can pay attention to children when teachers are busy and act as a teacher’s helper.
Several studies have shown that AI can improve teaching and learning in early childhood education, including language skill development.
There are also AI-powered toys that introduce children to the concept of artificial intelligence and help improve early learning.
4. AI in education
Many jobs are at risk from AI, but education doesn’t seem to be among them, at least at the K-12 level.
The pandemic has shown how in-school learning can be valuable, but schools also offer other benefits for students, such as socialization.
However, AI technology offers many benefits for teachers, saving them time and allowing them to focus their energy on more valuable tasks.
Tasks that AI programs like ChatGPT can help with include creating lesson plans, helping grade reports and homework, providing personalized support to students, and creating videos from textbooks.
The possibilities are enormous and classroom teachers should aim to make the most of this technological advancement.
5. AI in Tutoring
Another useful application of AI is tutoring.
AI isn’t a complete replacement for classroom learning, but it can help students who fall behind and need extra practice.
AI programs can train students in any subject and guide them in areas where additional learning is needed.
AI is especially useful for tutoring, as it can be individually customized. Programs like ChatGPT allow users to create specific and unique learning plans that work for their students.
Classes that are best suited for AI include geography, languages, physics, mathematics, computer programming, chemistry, and more.
Teachers can also work with students to design AI tutoring programs that help students master subjects in the learning style that best suits them.
Related investment topics
Is AI the future of education?
Is AI the future of education?
Artificial intelligence education won’t completely disrupt school systems, but as Chegg’s announcement shows, students and teachers alike are already taking advantage of new technologies like ChatGPT.
In education, AI is likely to complement, rather than disrupt, existing educational infrastructure, and just as computer science has grown in value over the past 30 years, so too will the availability of such tools. Learning how to use it should be a priority for students and teachers.
Among other things, AI tools can improve learning outcomes and allow teachers to focus on areas where they can add more value.
With many education stocks dropping due to the ChatGPT threat, there doesn’t seem to be much of a big investment opportunity in AI for education right now. Still, investors looking to invest in AI stocks can also consider AI ETFs and AI chatbots.
As generative AI technology continues to develop, more investment opportunities may emerge.
Randy Zuckerberg is the former head of market development and public relations at Facebook, the sister of Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg, and a member of the Motley Fool’s board of directors. Jeremy Bowman has a position at Metaplatform and his Netflix. The Motley Fool has positions on and recommends the Meta Platform and Netflix. The Motley Fool recommends Chegg and Duolingo. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
