Transforming Education with AI

The pervasiveness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will redefine productivity and the future of work. As AI evolves, transformations in how we perform tasks, make decisions, and manage work processes will be at the forefront. The wind of change that AI brings is expected to create a more efficient, innovative, and dynamic work environment.

Singapore has been proactive in embracing digital transformation through initiatives like the Smart Nation programme, National AI Strategy 2.0, and the EdTech Masterplan 2030. Our educational approach has also been updated to integrate AI tools that personalise learning and enhance efficiency, advancing Singapore in this global race.

AI’s Role in Education

AI offers unprecedented opportunities to reshape education. Adapting to individual learning speeds and styles, AI can accelerate learning and foster deeper understanding by filtering out irrelevant information and focusing on essential content. Additionally, smart solutions, such as chatbots, is enriching the learning experience with its real-time support.

However, responsible use of AI is crucial. Clear guidelines must be established on how and when AI should be used. Educators should specify the context and extent of AI’s use in assignments to promote ethical usage and mitigate the risk of plagiarism. AI should complement human intelligence, and learners must be taught to leverage AI responsibly, ensuring the use of technology that supports a healthy and ethical society. For example, AI Playbooks can be designed to guide learners in structuring and asking effective questions, including the use of various types of prompts to leverage Gen AI to support their learning. It is equally important for the Playbook to highlight potential pitfalls when using Gen AI so that learners will be discerning as users. An AI Playbook specially curated for staff in an institution can serve both academic and administrative purposes to include best practices, use cases and real examples.

Navigating AI with Critical Thinking Skills

AI’s ability to deliver quick and credible information can sometimes lead to uncritical acceptance. Cultivating robust critical thinking skills is therefore imperative. Learners must learn to question, verify information and develop a healthy dose of scepticism.

A strong subject mastery and foundational knowledge are essential before introducing AI as a learning tool. By building a solid base of knowledge, learners can effectively leverage AI’s capabilities to enhance their learning experience. For a Service Design related subject, learners should be introduced to writing effective prompts, such as while using ChatGPT, to investigate subject topics in greater depth before educators incorporate Gen AI into assignments and projects. The use of Gen AI tools such as Jambot, Adobe Firefly and Padlet “I can’t draw” will allow learners to brainstorm and ideate new services while maintaining branding and product features.

Empowering Educators with AI

AI can increase educators’ productivity by automating administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on complex and creative endeavours such as generating engaging content for learners. In the workplace, AI-powered virtual assistants can manage schedules, send reminders, and perform various repetitive tasks. In the future, AI could potentially assist in initial assessment grading, enabling educators to provide more personalised support. However, the quality and accuracy of AI-generated content must be vigilantly monitored. For instance, a Noodle Factory bot was implemented at Temasek Polytechnic to assist students with a variety of questions during their internships. These questions range from inquiries about internship guidelines to situational dilemmas that require direct input from their lecturers. The use of the bot significantly reduces the time required for staff to address frequently asked questions related to guidelines, leaving them with more time to address more complex situational issues.

AI versus Equity in Education

Equitable access to AI tools is a significant concern. While many AI applications are open source, those with financial means can access more powerful and advanced versions, potentially widening the gap in educational equity. Ensuring that all learners, regardless of their financial background, have access to effective AI tools is essential for a truly equitable educational landscape.

Preparing Learners for an AI-Driven Future

As AI shapes the workplace, preparing learners to use AI effectively and responsibly is crucial. This includes teaching skills such as prompt engineering to help learners interact efficiently with AI systems. Educators play a key role in leading by example, showcasing the benefits of AI integration, and fostering a community of practice around its use in education.

Respective schools are currently in the process of reviewing their own curriculum to introduce AI to our students and train them to use AI tools to complement their domain-specific skills.

Co-piloting Tomorrow’s Education with AI

AI is poised to revolutionise education by providing personalised learning experiences, enhancing productivity, and preparing learners for an exciting future of immense possibilities. It will be our co-pilot in education and a catalyst for more effective and inclusive teaching and learning environments. However, to fully realise AI's potential we must prioritise equitable access, foster critical thinking and ensure responsible AI use.  By collaborating and adapting, we can build an education system that prepares learners for a future enriched by AI.

^{(This op-ed piece was published by LianHe Zaobao on 28th January 2024, under the '时代话题'}' section, on Page 26.)

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