The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Future of Education

Abstract

It is arguable that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is currently one of the hottest topics in technology. It is the subject of significant attention at technology conferences around the globe, and with the attention comes an increasing call to action for organisations across all industries to adopt a strategy towards AI implementation (1). Like any other new disruptive technology, there is a corporate race to lay groundwork, maintain market relevance, and keep up with the competition. The education sector is no exception to this, with current research predicting a 47.5% increase in the use of AI in education by between 2017 and 2021 (2). There are many potential applications of AI in the education sector. AI can be used to automate or assist administrative work such as admissions and enrolment, and course related tasks like grading and assessment. However, most experts agree that the impact AI will have on the future of education will likely extend beyond automation of existing teaching and learning processes, and will allow the development of intelligent learning systems that are able to adapt to best suit student requirements.