Artificial intelligence: utilising the opportunities for learning

A new phenomenon is the subject of controversial debate in schools: the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The tenor of one side of the debate is that pupils are forgetting how to learn and are having everything chewed up by computers. The opposing side sees - alongside the undeniable risks of the new technology - many advantages and positive aspects for teaching.

I tend to believe that new technologies offer valuable opportunities if used responsibly. I am also aware that AI harbours some dangers, not least social ones. But a look at the past also shows that new technologies with comparable potential always win out in the end. So today it's about setting the right course, thinking about how AI can be usefully integrated into lessons and where caution is needed.

Artificial intelligence could help learners interactively

Teachers will have no choice but to adapt their lessons. I see many advantages for teachers in the deliberate use of artificial intelligence in schools: Teaching material in language lessons, for example, can be prepared with less effort and in a much more differentiated way. In the medium term, it will be increasingly possible to customise the learning pace. As a tutor, AI could provide interactive feedback to learners and help with comprehension problems.

For example, programmes that can translate a written word, a picture or even a video are particularly valuable for language comprehension - this is already possible today. Pupils can try out the effect of another word in their essay practically in real time. That's great. And was unthinkable two years ago. New learning methods everywhere!

Changes happen anyway

In addition to positive effects on teaching, schools must also consider the aspect of media skills with regard to AI. In future, it will be a core skill to write the instructions for the artificial intelligence (the so-called prompt) as clearly as possible or to develop them together with the AI. This skill - communication between man and machine - must be mastered so that the AI is at the service of man and not the other way round.

Social and technological changes must be reflected in schools.

I am aware that schools today are under (too) much pressure to reform. However, social and technological changes must be reflected in schools if they are not to become an ivory tower. Changes are happening faster and faster. This does not leave any of us unaffected. This is especially true for schools. It is the task of teachers and parents to accompany these developments with a critical mind, but also with an open attitude and without excessive fear. We owe it to our children.