AI in Education: A Boon or a Silent Disruptor?

Inventions, it is said, hold no inherent value—dynamite can either build or destroy, just as electricity, atomic energy, and the Internet have dual purposes. Yet, these advances primarily enhance human abilities without replacing the creators themselves. This aphorism, however, doesn’t fully apply to Artificial Intelligence (AI), an invention poised to reshape societies and generations if unchecked.

The impact of AI on education is particularly alarming. Tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini have ushered in an era where students can instantly access pre-structured answers with humor, spell checks, and contextualization. Features like Google Lens’ “homework” button exacerbate this trend. Consequently, critical thinking and creativity are at risk of extinction, replaced by AI-driven convenience.

While industries cautiously adopt AI, often fearing redundancy, students embrace it unreservedly for short-term gains. This enthusiasm is particularly concerning in India’s rote-learning-based education system. Reliance on AI raises questions about students’ value in the job market, as many lack the problem-solving skills and critical thinking essential for long-term careers.

So, how do we counteract this dependency? Teachers must innovate by redesigning curricula to foster creativity and real-world problem-solving. In-class assignments, collaborative projects, and unconventional evaluation methods can minimize AI reliance. Students, on the other hand, should prioritize skill-building over grades, embracing intellectual risks and focusing on long-term growth rather than immediate rewards.

AI should amplify human potential, not replace it. Education must evolve, ensuring technology serves as a tool, not a master.