As we get further into the 21st century, Artificial Intelligence is becoming an integral part of daily life, influencing work, education, entertainment, politics, etc. AI’s growing presence has sparked many debates — those who are for it and against it. What opposers don’t realize is that their main argument — that the younger generation will abuse AI and become heavily dependent on it — can easily be fixed by shifting the focus from resisting AI involvement, which is going to happen anyway, to teaching students how to use it properly. 

AI is reshaping jobs as we know them: developers use it to code, retailers use it to keep stock, manufacturers use it to mass produce. Our generation is going to need to be prepared for this reality, and right now schools are so focused on the concerns that they are stunting our ability. While some of these concerns are valid, many are purely based off of fear and underestimation. For example, NAFSA debunks the sentiment that AI increases cheating.

There are many ways the education system can implement AI into their curriculums and school environments to help better prepare students for the inevitable AI-driven future. My Global Challenges class, explored the different ways that Kents Hill could implement AI to better aid students both now and for the future. For example:

1. An AI system that further aids students in need of Learning Centre help, one that provides extended time, translation technology, and other forms of assistive technology for learning disabilities, etc.
2. An AI system that allows students and teachers alike to personalize homework assignments and projects. Useful for students who, again, use Learning Centre help, and to adhere to the different types of learning.
3. An AI system that provides personalised tutoring and feedback for homework assignments, projects, and take home quizzes and tests. Useful for students with busy schedules (day students or because of athletic duties), or who need extra help outside of Learning Centre and Office Hours. Additionally, it helps teachers who are busy balancing teaching, coaching, and family.
4. An AI system that records notes and can analyze slides to create a personalised and more understandable version of a lesson.
5. AI PEAK sessions and discussions as part of a class curriculum to discuss proper use, ethics, implementation, and influence.
6. Purposeful use of AI technology within or for assignments.
7. An augmented reality lab system for science classes in Dunn that would allow for more experimental and hand-on learning, less safety concern, and less money regarding hiring someone to build these systems and the purchase of equipment in contrast to upgrading and renovating Dunn.

All of these are ways and more that Kents Hill could use AI to their advantage to help make schooling better for teachers and students alike. More time, better understanding, better prepared.