By Margaret Kimani
Digital Content Creator, Jodan College
The recent years have seen a steady rise in the use of modern technology and with it has come a wave of even better tools, Artificial Intelligence. Artificial intelligence has gained traction in the recent years as more and more people have discovered how easily accessible it is and how easy it is to use. For most people, AI has become almost like an assistant with most of the population tasking it with roles they would have normally given to other people. One of these critical roles is in education.
Ai has been incorporated into the daily routines of academic programs with the larger percentage being mostly students who are now using the tools to conduct research, generate ideas, do their assignments and in some cases even help with tests and exams. But is this really an opportunity for learners to excel or a threat to the well-being of our education system?
In a global survey done to assess the use of Ai in learning by (Chegg.org 2023), it was found that 63% of Kenyan learners use Generative Ai in their higher learning.Β Many of these admitted that Ai made learning more interactive for them, helped them learn faster, allowed for more creative use of learning, helped them overcome learning differences and personalized learning for them. These among other reasons shows that when used correctly, Ai tool can become a useful resource in learning.
On the other hand, the majority of students using Ai have also raised some concerns with the use of Ai which have led researchers to believing that in spite of the numerous praises, the tool also comes as a threat. Some of these challenges include over-reliance on Ai and technology where students become lazy to even perform simple tasks that would normally require critical thinking and application of skills. Secondly, Ai tools have over time being proven to hallucinate and make up ideas. This has led to the questions about the accuracy of Ai-generated content. The prolonged use of Ai has also led to ethical concerns including, issues related to breach of persona data privacy, algorithm biases and autonomy for both learners and educators. These among other risks come as a threat to students and the education system.
In conclusion, Ai has led to significant changes in the way education is delivered in the country. With its advancement, it is a tool that cannot be ignored and done away with. This therefore calls for moderate and purposeful use of the tool. When used well it can lead to greater developments and advancement but on the other hand it can also pose a great danger for students and in hindsight to the future of our country. Awareness and information should be adequately offered on the right tools to use for what and when.