Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword; it’s changing the way we live and work. In education, AI is opening doors to new opportunities for students, teachers, and even parents. But how does it really help, and what does it mean for classrooms around the world?
Let’s dive into the benefits and practical uses of AI in education, explained by Dr. Kishore’s Ratnam Schools in simple terms.
Benefits of Artificial Intelligence in Education
1. Personalised Learning
AI tailors lessons to fit each student’s needs. For example, if a student struggles with maths, AI-powered tools can provide additional practice tailored to their weak areas. Students can learn at their own pace with this individualized method.
2. 24/7 Access to Learning
With AI tools, learning doesn’t stop when school hours are over. Students can use chatbots, online tutors, or apps to clarify doubts or practice topics anytime, anywhere. This constant availability ensures that learning can happen whenever the student is ready.
3. Frees Up Teachers’ Time
Teachers often spend a lot of time grading assignments or preparing lessons. AI can automate these tasks, like grading multiple-choice tests or creating practice questions. This gives teachers more time to focus on teaching and interacting with students.
4. Identifies Learning Gaps
AI analyses student performance to identify where they are struggling. For example, if a student keeps making the same grammar mistake, AI-powered tools can highlight this issue and offer exercises to address it.
5. Encourages Engagement
Interactive AI tools, like educational games or virtual assistants, make learning fun. These tools keep students interested and motivated, especially in subjects they might find boring or difficult.
6. Accessible Education for All
AI helps break barriers for students with disabilities. Tools like text-to-speech, speech-to-text, or language translation make learning accessible for everyone, regardless of their abilities or native language.
7. Career Guidance
AI systems can analyse a student’s strengths, interests, and academic performance to suggest career paths or courses. This guidance can be invaluable in helping students make informed decisions about their futures.
How Is Artificial Intelligence Used in Education?
1. Smart Tutoring Systems
AI-powered tutors, like Duolingo or Khan Academy, provide instant feedback and explanations. These systems adapt to the student’s level, offering challenges that are neither too easy nor too hard.
2. Virtual Classrooms
AI enables virtual learning environments where students can attend classes, take tests, and interact with teachers—all online. This has been especially useful during the pandemic, where physical classrooms weren’t accessible.
3. Automated Grading
AI tools can grade exams, essays, and assignments quickly and accurately. While it might not completely replace a teacher’s judgment for subjective questions, it’s perfect for quizzes and objective tests.
4. Language Learning
Apps like Rosetta Stone and Google Translate use AI to help students learn new languages. AI provides pronunciation feedback, translations, and exercises tailored to the learner’s progress.
5. Student Monitoring Systems
AI is able to monitor student performance, involvement, and attendance in real time. Teachers can utilize this information to determine which students might want further help.
6. Customised Curriculum
AI tools assist in developing personalized study schedules for students. For instance, if a student excels in science but struggles with history, the AI can recommend more time on history topics while maintaining progress in science.
7. Improved Accessibility
AI-driven tools like screen readers, voice recognition software, and captioning services make learning materials accessible for students with hearing or vision impairments.
8. AI-Powered Research Tools
Students can use AI tools to gather information, summarise content, and even generate ideas for projects. These tools make research faster and more efficient.