The Potential of Al: Empowering Learning and Communication in the Digital Age

As the school year ends, UW iSchool Professors share insights on the potential benefits of AI beyond the classroom.

As another school year is coming to a close, Professors at the UW iSchool are seeking to spotlight the great potential artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT bring to research and learning, highlighting the way it might serve as a next-level tool to bolster inclusivity and expression, fuel productivity and global exchange of ideas beyond the classroom. Like any tool, they say, it's how we use it and to what ends will make all the difference.

Jason Yip, an associate School Professor specializing in technology in families, says, "AI can change how we learn in school and connect with our families. It can help us think deeper about how we use it and what it's good for." He thinks it's great for students to use Al to help them figure out what information is helpful and how to learn better.

AI can personalize learning, keep student engagement, provide immediate feedback, and enhance access to multiple learning resources. It's as if a teaching assistant for every department is available 24/7 for teachers and students. AI can enhance the learning experience and support students with different needs in doing their best. Additionally, it can assist educators in developing new lesson plans and help them dedicate more time to teaching crucial material.

"Al isn't just for doing tasks or making learning personalized; it can help us come up with new ideas and work together in ways we haven't before," says Professor Katie Davis, an associate School Professor. She discusses the potential of AI to facilitate collaboration between students and teachers from diverse backgrounds and languages on projects.

Professor Sam Gyun Oh, an affiliated professor at iSchool, adds, "Al can make education more open and fair for everyone, helping students share their thoughts, even if they're still learning a second language." Al can enhance education by providing a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to express themselves, regardless of their proficiency in a second language.

Having a solid grasp of AI is necessary for students to utilize technology tools and drive innovation effectively. It is also crucial for students to develop critical thinking skills and prepare for upcoming career prospects.

While the exact implications of AI for educational institutions remain uncertain, it is clear that it has already had a significant influence on student achievement, academic research, and communication beyond the classroom.

The instructors at the UW iSchool are excited about Al's further potential to enhance beyond education and support inclusivity, assisting young adults in their pursuit of knowledge and growth in the digital age.