The benefits and challenges of artificial intelligence for educators and students

Abstract

The article analyzes the benefits and challenges of artificial intelligence for educators and students. Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) burst into the public awareness in late 2022 with the launch of ChatGPT, which became the fastest growing app in history. With the power to imitate human capabilities to produce outputs such as text, images, videos, music and software codes, these GenAI applications have caused a stir. Millions of people are now using GenAI in their daily lives and the potential of adapting the models to domain-specific AI applications seems unlimited. Such wide-ranging capacities for information processing and knowledge production have potentially huge implications for education, as they replicate the higher-order thinking that constitutes the foundation of human learning. As GenAI tools are increasingly able to automate some basic levels of writing and artwork creation, they are forcing policy-makers and institutions to revisit why, what and how students learn. These are now critical considerations for education in this new phase of the digital era. The research findings emphasize the benefits of integrating AI chatbots in education, as seen from both students’ and educators’ perspectives. It is pointed out that students primarily gain from AI-powered chatbots in such areas as homework and study assistance, a personalized learning experience, and the development of various skills. For educators, the main advantages are the time-saving assistance and improved pedagogy. The article also considers significant challenges and critical factors that educators need to handle diligently. These include concerns related to AI applications such as reliability, accuracy, and ethical considerations.