UNESCO Urges Use of AI in Education to Tackle Global Inequalities
In a recent call for action, UNESCO has advocated for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the education sector. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation believes that AI has the potential to address some of the most pressing challenges in education today.
By harnessing the power of AI, teachers can enhance student outcomes by identifying areas of weakness and tailoring strategies to target those shortcomings. Additionally, AI can be instrumental in improving student engagement and fostering an interest in learning among students with behavioral differences and special needs.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility in education, UNESCO has embraced the use of AI to make learning more readily available to students who are unable to attend in-person sessions. This technology has also been praised for its potential to combat the current teacher shortage crisis in the UK, with tens of thousands of educators leaving the profession in recent years.
To support teachers in their daily tasks and optimize their impact, Adeel Khan launched MagicSchool, a platform that utilizes OpenAI’s technology. With over 150,000 users, MagicSchool provides assistance to teachers in creating worksheets, tests, and tailored educational programs for students with special needs. It also adjusts reading material based on a student’s literary level, offering a personalized learning experience.
It is crucial to note that despite the integration of AI into education, UNESCO emphasizes that machines will not replace teachers entirely. Instead, AI will relieve teachers of administrative burdens, allowing them to focus on activities that require higher-order thinking, creativity, and interpersonal collaboration.
While AI in education has numerous benefits, it has also faced criticism. Some groups, including MPs and parent organizations, have expressed concerns about using AI-generated reports. However, UNESCO’s publication emphasizes that AI can significantly reduce exhaustion among educators.
With its AI for all campaign, UNESCO aims to promote the use of AI in teaching globally, ensuring equitable access to knowledge and educational resources. Their publication, ‘Artificial Intelligence and Education: Guidance for Policy-makers,’ provides valuable insights into adopting AI as a technological revolution while addressing concerns about technology-driven inequality.
Overall, UNESCO’s call for using AI in education aligns with the pressing need to bridge educational gaps and enhance learning outcomes. By embracing this technology, education can become more inclusive, individualized, and accessible to students worldwide.
