AI Revolution in Classrooms: A Glimpse into the Future of Education
Embracing Change in the Education Landscape
In Maryland’s classrooms, educators and technology advocates are uniting to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. As AI makes inroads into our lives, the question arises: how will it redefine learning experiences? Maryland’s tech innovator and education professionals give us a firsthand look into this futuristic classroom scenario, shaping not just the curriculum, but the future itself.
A New Kind of Classroom
Today’s learning environment has moved far beyond chalkboards and covered textbooks. Students like seventh-grader De’Aria Johnson at City Springs Elementary School, are part of an educational transformation that involves AI. “It’s a new thing to me, but it’s super fun and cool,” Johnson enthusiastically shares, echoing sentiments of her peers.
WJZ had an opportunity to witness this revolution at City Springs’ Future Think Edge summer program. This pilot initiative utilizes AI software developed by Brandon Phillips, founder of Future Think Hub. What’s extraordinary is its personalization: each student is assigned a virtual teacher tailored to their learning capacity. This software adapts, teaches, and engages by creating a learner profile unique to every student. As stated in CBS News, it’s a tool set to maximize individual learning potential.
AI’s Impact on Learning and Teaching Dynamics
For school leaders like Assistant Principal Rob Summers of City Springs Elementary School, embracing technology is crucial for preparing students for the future job market. Summers asserts, “We can’t just be preparing our kids for the economy of five years ago…we have to be ready for what’s next.” Teachers remain instrumental, guiding students with lessons complemented by one-on-one computer assistance, ensuring personalized attention in education.
Brandon Phillips shares that his software provides equitable attention to all, be it for gifted or special-needs students, fostering a nurturing learning environment. Johnson’s experience with AI speaks volumes: “If I don’t know something from class, I just use Future Think for extra help. I can ask the system instead of waiting for the teacher.”
The Virtual School Experience
Dr. Aileen Hawkins, CEO of Inspired Online Schools USA, believes her institution is at the forefront of this education revolution. Dr. Hawkins emphasizes the flexibility online schooling offers, allowing students to engage with classroom-like settings from anywhere at any time. Post-pandemic enrollment surged as parents sought tailored education experiences for their children.
An online school affords opportunities that traditional settings can’t yet match. Using augmented reality, students can virtually step inside a museum or explore human anatomy in a virtual lab. Dr. Hawkins asserts, “An online school can do what brick and mortar can’t yet for preparing students competitively for tomorrow’s workforce.”
Navigating Uncertainties with Optimism
The unpredictability of future education is tempered by glimpses of AI’s potential. Education professionals urge the necessity of embracing rather than resisting technological shifts. With words of caution and opportunity, Assistant Principal Summers and Phillips remind us that engaging with AI is a choice towards empowerment rather than apprehension.
However, the general acceptance of AI in education is yet to see unanimous support. A Junior Achievement survey reveals that more than half of teens, about 64%, claim they don’t receive encouragement from their schools regarding AI usage.
As we stand on the brink of a potential revolution in education, Maryland’s educators and tech pioneers are taking bold steps to ensure our classrooms are equipped for the future. Embracing AI, they envision learning experiences that are not just inventive and dynamic, but also deeply personal.
