New Research On The Opportunities And Risks Of Generative Artificial Intelligence For Education

Wellington (Monday, 17 June 2024) – A
new report from The New Zealand Initiative calls for a
science-based approach to using artificial intelligence (AI)
in classrooms. This will help schools get the most out of AI
while reducing risks to teaching and learning.

The
report, Welcome to the Machine: Opportunities and Risks
of Generative Artificial Intelligence for Education,
written by Senior Fellow Dr Michael Johnston, will help
educators and policymakers navigate the rapidly evolving
landscape of AI in education.

It finds that AI will
not change what students need to learn. “It is still
important for schools to teach key subjects like science,
history and maths,” says Dr Johnston. “Students still need
to learn fundamental skills and acquire knowledge. Critical
thinking and creativity depend on knowledge.”

Drawing
on scientific research on human learning, the report gives
guidance on how AI can help students learn better, and how
to avoid potential pitfalls. Educators must understand
appropriate ways to use AI with their students. “If students
use AI for tasks before they have learned the basics, it can
slow down their learning later on,” Dr Johnston
said.

The report sees both risks and opportunities in
using AI for education. AI can help teachers give better
feedback and track student progress. But it should not
replace the important relationships between students and
expert teachers. “Learning involves human connection, where
teachers skilfully impart knowledge. AI should be used to
support teaching, not replace it,” says Dr
Johnston.

The New Zealand Initiative believes this
report will help people make good decisions about AI in
schools, to get the best outcomes for
students.

https://www.nzinitiative.org.nz

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