Innovation in Education: How AI is Changing the Game

AI is increasingly becoming a significant tool in the education sector, enhancing rather than replacing the roles of teachers and college professors. A recent Financial Times article outlines some of the ways business school professors are using or envisioning using AI to enhance learning experiences. 

Robert Seamans, a professor at NYU Stern School of Business, comments that he believes AI, like ChatGPT, will assist educators in improving their effectiveness, making them faster and potentially better at their jobs. His research indicates that the education sector, especially teachers in various subjects, is highly exposed to AI integration but emphasizes that this does not necessarily mean job replacements. Instead, it suggests a shift in how educational work is performed, with AI enabling new methods of content delivery, student engagement, and administrative efficiency.

David Veredas from Vlerick Business School views AI as a facilitator for educators, enhancing learning experiences with tools like virtual reality. Similarly, Greg Benson from the University of San Francisco is excited about the potential of generative AI in education, pointing out its use in fostering problem-solving skills among students. Benson, who also serves as SnapLogic’s Chief Scientist, laid out his predictions about the future of generative AI in a Tech Wire Asia article at the beginning of the year. 

Both Seamans and Benson acknowledge the utility of AI in academic processes. For instance, Seamans uses ChatGPT to expedite his writing process, noting it helps in structuring thoughts and sparking creativity, though he emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal input. Benson highlights experimental AI tools, such as Google’s NotebookLM, which can act as virtual assistants, suggesting a shift towards AI-augmented roles rather than replacements.

The article underscores the belief that AI will not make educational roles obsolete but will make certain tasks more manageable. It could help in drafting research, structuring academic papers, and brainstorming, thereby speeding up the academic workflow without compromising the educators’ creative or intellectual contributions.

Veredas remains optimistic about the future of education with AI, highlighting the importance of interaction, discussion, and critical thinking – elements that AI cannot replicate. He suggests a model where basic concepts are learned at home through AI, allowing deeper discussion in class, emphasizing the need to embrace new technology beneficially.

To read the Financial Times article, click here. If you’re interested in applying to business school, contact us now and we’ll help you get started on your applications!