Imagine a tailor-made education for each student was nearly utopian until a year ago. But generative artificial intelligence can change that scenario. In this article, we will understand how the popularization of generative artificial intelligence can impact Edtechs and what the prospects are for the near future.
The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) had its beginnings in the 1950s when researchers began exploring the idea of creating machines capable of performing tasks that required human intelligence. This technology was already widely used in the business world, including in Learning Management Systems (one of the main products of Edtechs), but it played a secondary role, processing numbers to improve decision-making.
Since then, AI has evolved significantly, reaching generative AI. This specific category stands out for its ability to create, innovate, and generate content autonomously. It popularized in 2023 and, according to Market Research Engine, is expected to grow to $5.80 billion by 2025.
While conventional AI aims to solve specific problems based on historical data, generative AI, such as the popular GPT-3 chat, goes beyond, producing text, images, and even programming code.
The potential applications of this technology lie in various fields of human life. For Edtech companies, this new technology can open up new perspectives for the development of new products and services. Here are some areas where this can happen:
Adaptive learning systems: AI can personalize teaching, adapting to the individual learning styles of students. AI algorithms can assess a student’s knowledge level and adapt content, speed, and learning style to maximize engagement and understanding. This results in more effective and efficient learning, helping students reach their full potential.
Interactive tutoring: One of the major issues in education is providing student support during the teaching-learning process, especially in distance education. AI can be used as a virtual assistant to help students understand content in real-time.The potential for gain with this possibility lies in reducing dropout rates and fostering improved learning.
Intelligent content: AI tools can work with the language of textbooks in a more dialogical way, making the learning of complex subjects simpler and automating instructional design activities. The gain from the application of AI will be in the speed of production and the reduction of costs.
Automation and acceleration of teaching activities: AI systems can assist teachers in correcting activities and assessments, allowing teachers to focus on more complex and less operational activities. In addition to reducing operational costs, the application of AI in these activities could redefine the role of the teacher.
Curricular materials: AI can design digital curricula containing a variety of formats, such as videos, audios, and virtual tutors, with lower costs. This variety is important for engaging and retaining students in the solutions.Currently, it is possible to do this, but the cost is often prohibitive. Therefore, AI will help in reducing costs to provide this greater variety.
Identifying learning gaps in the class: AI can monitor student responses and help identify which concepts the teacher needs to reinforce or explain again. This will reduce the teacher’s effort and provide a more accurate and faster diagnosis, offering better results for the students.
In addition to traditional education, there is a vast field to be explored in corporate education. The possibilities mentioned above are also applicable to training and development of employees in companies, reducing costs associated with continuous development.
Although with the potential to transform education, there are several challenges and ethical considerations involved in adopting artificial intelligence, especially in the context of Edtechs. These concerns include student data privacy, algorithmic bias, and excessive dependence on technology in the teaching-learning process. It is essential for educational institutions and regulators to address these concerns and establish strong ethical guidelines.
Technology is shaping the world of education in an innovative and transformative way. As we continue to explore and improve the use of AI in Edtechs, we must prioritize the fundamental goal of providing high-quality education to people, empowering students to reach their full potential. In this introductory essay, we have presented some application possibilities for Edtechs and highlighted the challenges. As this is still an evolving technology, we will see many changes that cannot be predicted yet.
