Teacher or Tool? The AI Dilemma in Education and Its Impact on Learning Equity

• In Event: Highlighted Presidential Session: Digital Societies and Learning Equity: Exploring our multiple futures

Proposal

As artificial intelligence rapidly advances, its potential to revolutionize education is both promising and concerning. This presentation explores a critical question facing our global digital society: Will AI-driven education bridge the learning equity gap between developed and developing nations, or will it widen existing disparities? I examine two potential futures: one where AI becomes the primary educator in resource-constrained regions, potentially compensating for the lack of qualified and trained teachers, and another where AI serves as an assistant to human teachers worldwide, enhancing educational experiences without replacing human connections. By analyzing the implications of these scenarios, I delve into the complex interplay between technological advancement, educational equity, cultural preservation, and ethical considerations. The discussion covers the challenges of implementing AI in diverse educational contexts, the evolving role of human educators, and the potential long-term societal impacts of AI-driven learning. Ultimately, this presentation aims to provoke thought on how we can harness AI's potential to create a more equitable global educational landscape while preserving the irreplaceable human elements of teaching.

Author

• Alex Twinomugisha, World Bank