Writing essays, solving math problems, and even carrying conversations—artificial intelligence has rapidly infiltrated the lives of the general public. Previously utilized mainly by tech companies, the concept of AI remained a futuristic fantasy to most, associated with sci-fi thrillers about robots taking over. However, the last few months have proven that these imaginary scenarios are not too far from the truth; recent advancements in artificial intelligence technology allow any average person to explore its endless possibilities from their own devices.
While most see access to AI as a life-changing tool to simplify a plethora of tasks, school environments scramble to prevent its usage. Seizing the opportunity to save time and effort on manually completed assignments, students input their essay prompts and send photos of math problems to AI programs, which perform the tasks nearly flawlessly in a matter of seconds. Educators grow understandably concerned as students fail to acquire the skills their strategically curated assignments aim to teach. Ironically, they search for artificial intelligence that can detect AI-generated work, and give suspected AI users failing grades. Although understandable considering the current structure of education, these are fruitless endeavors. AI’s presence in today’s world has grown too large, and only continues to increase, making it simply impossible for schools to push it away.
Students’ futures undoubtedly contain AI influence in both jobs and home life, and given that education aims to prepare the next generation for the future, it must somehow update alongside the technology to work unanimously, rather than combat it. A specialist in landing jobs and a certified influencer on Instagram, Austin Belcak or @cultivated.culture, shared a post dedicated to useful implications of AI when searching for employment. Personalizing a resume for a target role, optimizing resume bullets, and predicting interview focuses are just a few tips he shares. However, because the current education system characterizes AI use as cheating and therefore heavily forbids it, students may become discouraged or even totally unaware when it comes to AI’s highly beneficial abilities, therefore missing out on an opportunity to strengthen their chances of success. Rather than participating in an unwinnable battle against artificial intelligence, educators must learn to take advantage of it. By teaching students how to use AI to assist their work, rather than replace it, schools will better prepare their students for the world’s new era of AI.