EMBRACING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A LEARNING COMPANION: ENSURING HUMAN INTELLIGENCE THRIVES.

Guest Author: Chukwuemeka Princess

Imagine a future where robotic teachers instruct our children; where algorithms determine the curriculum; and where classrooms are devoid of human interactions. In the realm of healthcare, the idea of robotic surgeons and Artificial Intelligence – powered caregivers raises complex ethical and emotional questions. While these Artificial Intelligence – powered caregivers do exist, can they absolutely replace or take over the duties of human caregivers? Think about the trust between the patients and the caregivers, the compassion and the emotional support. Can Artificial Intelligence really perform these functions? The health sector aside, take a look at the financial sector. Although Artificial Intelligence can perform tasks such as predicting market flunctuations, analyzing vast amounts of market data in real-time and detecting fraud, research has shown that tough decisions that revolve around investments, policy making and market strategies cannot be effectively carried out by Artificial Intelligence. As a result of these limitations, the idea that Artificial Intelligence will replace humans is flawed.

Artificial Intelligence, an invention which evolved through the innovativeness of different scientists, is just a machine built to collaborate with humans to create a more efficient, compassionate, and just society. On the other hand, Human Intelligence can be seen as an exquisite symphony of cognition, emotion and creativity, orchestrating our capacity to perceive, adapt and transcend the boundaries of knowledge, fueled by the harmonious interplay of neural networks, experiences and the pursuit of understanding. The human brain consists of neurons, which are the functional units of the brain, responsible for transmitting electrical signals and information throughout the nervous system. The human brain can process sensory information, regulate body functions, store and retrieve memories and most notably, facilitate higher order cognitive functions. This intricateness reveals the fact that the human brain is unique and can perform complex functions. However, despite the complex nature of the human brain, it has lapses such as memory blanking, forgetfulness, mind-wandering and absentmindedness. These lapses can be covered for by Artificial Intelligence. Consequently, this emphatically expresses that in no time soon would any of the ‘Intelligences’ override the other. Instead, they would constantly work collaboratively to enhance each other.

While the foregoing has conceptualized Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence and has also exposed their functions and contributions to the world we live in, it is paramount we take a crucial look at the impact of Artificial Intelligence in the lives of students. Hence, the question: What should students do to ensure Artificial Intelligence does not override but enhance their ability to learn through research?

First, students should have the right mindset about Artificial Intelligence. They should view Artificial Intelligence as a tool-a device to help them work effectively and not as a replacement for their innate ability to think creatively. Students’ main focus should be on maintaining a balanced use of Artificial Intelligence –assisted learning and the traditional methods of learning. Striking a balance between technology and traditional methods acknowledges the importance of human interaction in education.

Additionally, students should practice unwavering inquisitiveness. A true inquisitive spirit would enable students develop critical thinking skills and their ability to gather knowledge for improvement and not just for passing an examination. This way, the innate and positive traits such as hard work, diligence to work and creativity would be enhanced in the students. Several inventions have been birthed through the uniqueness of the brain of which Artificial Intelligence is not an exemption. Critical thinking skills are crucial for students to ensure Artificial Intelligence- generated information is authentic and significant. Therefore, students should focus majorly on nurturing these unique qualities that can enormously complement the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence.

In conclusion, though many fear that Artificial Intelligence would render Human Intelligence useless, this essay has exposed that in no time soon would any of the ‘Intelligences’ override the other. Rather they would continually work complementarily to foster development. On the other hand, students should maintain a positive opinion about Artificial Intelligence. They should see Artificial Intelligence as a tool to improve their learning, not as a replacement for their brains; and constantly practise true inquisitiveness-an act that would enable them always drink from the pierian spring.

Photo Credit: Andrea De Santis