Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a vital component of our everyday lives as citizens of the 21st century. It has led to the drastic evolution of various areas in life such as commerce, education, health, and a lot more. However, the prevalence of AI technology has become alarming, with the phenomenon being viewed as a threat to human intelligence.
Society has been fed with so much misconceptions derived from the way science fiction portrays artificial intelligence. The truth remains that AI is a tool invented by humans, and it does not have the power to completely take over human intelligence. AI enhances human abilities, but it does not possess human attributes such as self-awareness, consciousness, or emotions.
As earlier stated, Artificial Intelligence cannot completely take over human abilities. However, AI can override them. Students should be concerned with how to ensure that AI enhances their abilities rather than override them, as they are the future generation (Gen Z). There are innumerable ways students can utilize AI tools to their fullest to learn through research.
To start with, students can explore virtual tutoring systems provided by AI technology. Tutoring systems provide personalized and preference-based learning methods which help to augment human skills and abilities. There exist reputable tutoring systems which enable users learn according to their individual paces and learning styles. This would serve as an effective way to develop human abilities.
Additionally, students should consider incorporating artificial intelligence technology into group projects and assignments to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Even though AI cannot replicate skills such as critical thinking as well as humans can, it can serve as an extremely useful tool in augmenting this skill in humans through collaborative research. This would prepare students for tasking situations they would encounter in their future work careers.
Another way students can use artificial intelligence to learn though research is by familiarizing themselves with AI-powered research tools such as search engines. This helps students filter and streamline their research processes by retrieving accurate information and saving time. The skill of information retrieval would be of great help to students in the future as it would help them approach information-driven problems they may encounter in their professional and academic lives.
Moreover, MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) are a great way for students to learn with the use of AI. They equip students with a variety of educational resources from high ranked institutions in the world. This allows students become more learned by enabling them to explore courses outside their curriculum, and eventually helping them gain admission into colleges and universities of their choice.
To conclude, students should maximize the benefits offered to them by artificial intelligence by broadening their knowledge base through research. This would reduce the overriding effect of AI on human intelligence. Students are responsible for staying informed and utilizing artificial intelligence to adapt in this AI driven world.
Munachiso Michelle AROH
Class of 2025