88% of Parents Say AI Is Crucial but Worry Schools Aren’t Teaching It
Source: https://www.parents.com/
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a significant part of everyday life, with tools like ChatGPT, facial recognition, and autonomous vehicles. Many parents believe understanding AI is essential for their children’s future careers, as highlighted by a Samsung survey showing 88% of parents think AI knowledge is crucial, yet many are unsure if it’s included in school curriculums. Allison Stransky from Samsung emphasizes the need to bridge the AI knowledge gap in education, advocating for increased parental involvement and stronger AI integration in schools.
How Kids May Be Impacted by the Future of AI
Lynn Rogoff emphasizes that Gen Z and Gen Alpha need to grasp AI’s role in areas like data analysis, personalized learning, automated decision-making, and creativity, highlighting that AI should enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. According to Allison Stransky, understanding AI’s applications in health care, sustainability, and ethical usage is crucial, as today’s students will shape the future of AI.
Experts predict that AI will impact about 60% of jobs in advanced economies, with many roles requiring familiarity with AI tools. While some jobs may see AI performing tasks currently done by humans, others will benefit from increased productivity through AI integration. Thus, it’s vital to view AI as a complement to human work.
Embracing AI in the Classroom
Stransky highlights the importance of educating students about AI beyond its common uses, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of how generative AI functions. Rogoff suggests that students should learn about AI algorithms, machine learning, neural networks, AI ethics, biases, societal impacts, and critical thinking to evaluate AI-generated information.
Dr. Alexander stresses that students should recognize AI’s strengths, such as generating brainstorming ideas, creating outlines, and summarizing information, to enhance their efficiency. He emphasizes that AI should support, not replace, human thinking and reasoning, noting, “AI is a great wingman but a terrible driver.”
Challenges of AI in Education
Parents recognize that while AI is a transformative tool, it has limitations and can be used unethically. Dr. Alexander points out that AI systems can reflect biases from their creators, making it essential to address these issues. A significant majority—about 70%—of parents believe clear guidelines are necessary for AI in education, and 84% emphasize the importance of teaching AI ethics alongside technical skills. Stransky notes that while 69% of parents are hopeful about AI’s potential to enhance education, they are also aware of the challenges it poses in school settings.
How Are Students Using AI?
A report from Common Sense Media reveals that while young people recognize the potential of generative AI, they often overlook its pitfalls, highlighting the need for parental discussions about AI. Many teens use AI for homework help (53%) and other school assignments, often without teacher permission. They also employ it for various purposes, like combating boredom, translating languages, and seeking health advice.
Arman Jaffer, an AI education expert, stresses the importance of understanding how AI assists in the learning process rather than just seeking direct answers. He suggests using AI for brainstorming and feedback instead of completing assignments. Leticia Barr, a former computer science teacher, emphasizes that as AI becomes more integrated into education, it’s crucial for students to learn how to effectively leverage AI tools rather than banning their use.
What To Do if Your Child’s School Isn’t Teaching AI
Dr. Alexander advises parents to actively engage in their children’s education to support their learning about AI. If schools aren’t providing adequate AI-related information, parents should advocate for change and supplement their child’s education with resources like online courses, coding platforms, and STEM programs such as Samsung Solve for Tomorrow. Stransky adds that parents can foster their children’s curiosity about AI, help them find useful resources, and stay informed about AI’s role in education.
Image Source: https://www.parents.com/
