This week we talked about useful classroom tools, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and digital literacy. The idea of using AI in the classroom stood out to me. AI is the collection of computer technologies that are able to perform tasks that imitate human intelligence. AI technologies include Machine Learning, Deep Neural Networks, Deep Learning, and Natural Language. We learned that we use AI almost daily. AI includes searching the internet, Zoom, streaming, social feeds, and other technologies that help us learn and stay connected in our everyday lives. AI can be very helpful in jobs, education, health, and more. For example, apps that teach people a different language and give personalized feedback on their progress. These apps are doing the work that humans were once only able to do.
We talked about AI in schools. We watched a video on how AI is used in schools in China. They have robots and security cameras that can track how often you are paying attention, as well as how often you yawn and go on your phone. Certain data collected gets sent to not only teachers but parents as well. I understand that these are in place to ensure student engagement and for students to learn as much as possible but I would not want these technologies to be included in my classroom. I would not want my students to be punished for having a bad day or for being tired. I think certain technologies are an invasion of their privacy. I believe there are other ways to ensure student engagement and other ways you can encourage your students to participate in class, such as brain breaks, fun lessons, and incorporating games in class.
We learned about a website that talks about using AI in BC schools. This form of technology is already being used in lots of BC schools and will only continue to be used in the future. I am definitely not opposed to using this form of technology in my classroom, as AI is a part of our everyday lives, but I am not sure I would want technology in my classroom that is as advanced as China’s. I am interested in learning more about how AI is incorporated in BC schools and how it could be implemented into future lessons.
