'We nicknamed it Eddy': What do schools and teachers think of AI in classrooms?

Source: AIPT

Published on: 30 Sep 2024

Tags: artificial intelligence, educational technology, classroom application


It’s been almost two years since ChatGPT burst onto the scene in late 2022. Since then, educators worldwide have been grappling with what generative artificial intelligence might mean for classrooms and learning. This emerging technology has not only changed how students learn but also posed new challenges to teaching methods.

Students discussing with AI assistant
Teacher using AI tool in class

In this process, many schools and teachers have started experimenting with integrating AI tools into their daily routines. For example, some teachers have nicknamed ChatGPT “Eddy” and use it as a teaching aid. Eddy can help students answer questions, provide learning resources, and even participate in class discussions. This not only reduces the workload of teachers but also enhances student learning efficiency. However, this approach has also sparked some controversy. Some worry that over-reliance on AI might weaken students’ independent learning skills and even impact their creativity and critical thinking.

To better understand this phenomenon, I interviewed several frontline teachers. A secondary school teacher from the UK told me, “Eddy has been a great help, especially during the pandemic. It can quickly answer students’ questions and save a lot of time.” Another teacher from the US said, “While Eddy is very useful, we must use it cautiously. We need to ensure that students don’t become completely dependent on it but learn to think and solve problems on their own.”

Classroom with students using tablets

Moreover, some education experts have offered suggestions for the application of AI in classrooms. They believe that AI should be used as an auxiliary tool rather than a replacement for teachers. Teachers should guide students on how to use these tools correctly and foster their digital literacy. Schools should also develop policies to ensure the safe and effective use of AI technology.

In conclusion, the potential applications of AI in education are vast, but they require ongoing exploration and adjustment in practice. Only by doing so can we fully leverage the advantages of AI to create a better learning environment for students.



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