When it comes to AI in education, the headlines can be overwhelming for educators. It’s easy to get lost in existential ponderings, wondering about the future and our place in it. As someone immersed in the field of educational technology, I often contemplate the impact of AI on teaching and learning, especially as I work with aspiring educators in my role as an assistant professor.
Integrating generative AI into education is a complex process. The realm of AI is akin to the Wild West, with new developments unfolding rapidly. Exciting possibilities abound, but one aspect that gives me pause is the concept of time. Time is a recurring theme in some of my favorite films like “Benjamin Button,” “About Time,” and the “Back to the Future” trilogy, prompting me to reflect on the essence of life and the value of the time we have.
In a recent book that delves into the influence of generative AI on teacher education, researchers Punya Mishra and Marie K. Heath pose a thought-provoking question – what does it mean for learners to trade off the zone of proximal development for the ease of accessing knowledge creation? This question lingers in my mind, prompting me to ponder whether in our pursuit of efficiency, we may overlook the value of the experience gained through the process.
My fascination with AI extends beyond my professional endeavors and seeps into my personal life. A recent gardening project with my husband made me contemplate the tangible value of time spent engaged in physical labor. As I toiled in the garden, a mix of thoughts and emotions flooded my mind, highlighting the significance of hands-on work and the sense of accomplishment derived from it.
We live in a world where time often passes unnoticed, much like the fish in David Foster Wallace’s analogy. The preciousness of time is often overlooked in our quest for efficiency and convenience, reflected in the proliferation of time-lapse videos showcasing quick transformations in home improvement projects on social media platforms.
The concept of time and effort invested in meaningful endeavors is a central theme in my reflections on AI and its role in enhancing human experiences. The Greek term “Meraki,” encapsulating the essence of infusing soul and creativity into endeavors, resonates with me as I ponder the value of authentic, labor-intensive efforts over instant gratification.
Professional basketball player Caitlin Clark’s insight on the confidence garnered through dedicated practice underscores the transformative power of hard work and perseverance. While AI holds immense potential to enhance creativity and learning, the intrinsic value of hard work and experiential learning should not be overshadowed by the allure of quick solutions.
As educators, it is essential to consider the balance between leveraging AI for efficiency and preserving the depth of understanding gained through manual processes. Neil Postman’s reflections on technological change shed light on the biases inherent in every technology and the shift in values that accompany technological advancements.
As AI becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of our lives, it is crucial to reflect on the enduring importance of effort, time, and authentic experiences. The satisfaction derived from overcoming challenges, honing skills through practice, and creating something meaningful from scratch should not be overshadowed by the allure of instant solutions.
So, as we navigate the evolving landscape of AI in education, let us remember the value of hard work, perseverance, and the enriching journey of learning and growth. After all, as Tom Hanks famously said, “It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard… is what makes it great.”