Many educators excitedly explore the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom with rightful skepticism. There is massive potential for progress with AI and equal potential for problems with AI in education.

Though we embrace technological developments in education here at Banyan, we also understand that incorporating tech is far from perfect. In this post, we will discuss the real issues of AI in education and suggest ways to overcome these challenges.

What is AI?

AI has existed in various forms for decades. The most modern adaptation of AI, generative AI, is far from the first iteration. AI refers to machines, software, and other instruments capable of making decisions that usually require human intervention.

How Do Educators Use AI in the Classroom?

Educators use AI for many things, like time optimization, personalized learning, and differentiation in instruction. They often apply data from AI tools to better execute learning goals. AI can ignite creativity and challenge students to think critically when used correctly.

Since AI is a rapidly changing technology, it can be challenging to know when, how, or even if to use it in your lessons. Many bloggers and vloggers will imply that not using AI is a disservice to your students. However, before integrating any new method, tool, or technology, it is imperative to consider the possible negatives.

11 Disadvantages of AI in Education

AI integration seems inevitable. Many industries have already embraced its use as standard practice. What should you consider before incorporating AI into your classrooms?

Those who argue against AI in the classroom often cite the societal nature of educational institutions. In a January 2024 post, Mike Ananny argues that we should consider AI a public issue rather than only a technology issue.

Ananny argues that issues with AI, such as hallucinations, misattributed authorships, and regurgitated biases, are public problems. AI should be considered as an issue that will affect society as a whole, like clear air or gender inequality. Under this interpretation, education becomes the first line of defense.

Schools and educators are tasked with imparting knowledge to students and preparing them for higher education and life as citizens. As the world shifts toward greater AI use, educators should be acutely aware of the societal implications of AI misuse.

1. Bias in AI Algorithms

AI learns from people, and people are flawed. If the AI has learned from biased information, it is likely that students will receive biased answers when interacting with the AI. This is why it is vital to diversify training data and keep up to date with ethical considerations in AI tools.

2. Privacy Concerns

Many AI tools require access to personal information. This data could be subject to breaches. These risks highlight the need for transparent and explicit data policies and regulations.

3. Falling for the Hype

Students and educators may believe that AI is the solution to all of their problems. The Edtech industry leaders are eager to push their new tools. They often have a substantial marketing budget that may encourage some to use tools without properly understanding their function.

This is where policy and personal experience come in. Most educators recognize the novelty of a new tool and, therefore, know to be on the lookout for limitations. As schools adapt AI, policy and understanding will change to ensure its appropriateness. Educators will spearhead those changes.

4. Reduced Human Interaction

As with all technological advancements, there is a concern that students will lose some other ability. In the case of AI, especially AI-assisted feedback or grading, some worry that students will feel disconnected from their teachers.

The reduction of face-to-face communication is a reality that many of us faced during the pandemic. Though AI tools make distance learning easier, AI cannot empathize in the same way as an educator. Administrators should facilitate balanced AI integration in classrooms to ensure students and teachers have the support they need.

5. Dependence on Technology

We often hear the term “overdependence on technology,” but does it have a particular application in education? In the most general sense of technology, we are all dependent. When it comes to AI, the real fear is the loss of practical skills. Educators have the incredible opportunity to teach students how to use AI, why it works, and when it doesn’t.

Educators can also consider tech-free zones or lessons to assess practical skills. Students can take a break from screen time to interact with the lesson material in a more traditional way. This blended classroom experience will likely be the norm in the future.

6. Cheating and Academic Integrity

AI does open the door for academic dishonesty. ChatGPT will write an essay for your student but not necessarily write a unique or quality essay. As AI becomes more prevalent, there will be a need for innovative assessment methods and tools.

Educators can also foster an appreciation for originality and self-expression in assessments. Ideally, students will want to show their mastery of the material and will be disinclined to rely on AI to generate their submissions.

7. Accessibility Issues

Not all tools are designed with accessibility in mind. When you consider which AI tools to use, evaluate students’ needs. To the best of your ability, it is imperative to reinforce the equitable distribution of resources.

8. Misinformation and Disinformation

AI language models are vulnerable to disinformation. Students may be subjected to misinformation if the organization has a poorly executed language model. It is almost impossible to hold large tech companies accountable. So, the protection against disinformation needs to come from in-house.

The uncertainty of AI-generated information is another reason to emphasize media and digital literacy and fact-checking skills. Students and educators should not assume that any one source of information, particularly AI, is entirely accurate.

9. Ethical Concerns

There are a few ethical concerns about AI in education. The main questions involve unemployment, loss of creativity, and plagiarism. Institutions need to maintain transparency in decision-making. The ethical risk of AI goes beyond education.

10. Gatekeeping Information

One less-thought-of problem with AI in education is the reduction of access to some information due to policy or other concerns. Educators are arguably the best judges of appropriate information, but filters and other limitations on an AI tool may exclude some information significant to a sensitive topic.

This type of limitation on knowledge would affect students who want to access delicate information. For example, a student researching the attack on Black Wall Street may be unable to use AI as a research tool due to the topic’s disturbing nature. In these cases, traditional research would be an appropriate way to ensure adequate and objective sources.

11. Lack of Professional Development

One of the main problems with AI in education is the daunting task of policy standardization and appropriate professional development. AI is a constantly evolving medium, and though most of us are excited about its implementation in the classroom, the most significant hurdle is educators’ ability to impart AI literacy skills to their students.

What Do We Do Now?

Even if you don’t want to use AI in your classroom, you can’t deny its existence or that your students will have some access to it. However, you don’t need to view AI as a threat to education. Instead, it highlights the importance of the role of educators in the lives of students outside the classroom.

Take the initiative to explore AI, its limitations, and its benefits. Make the right call for you and your students.

FAQ

What is one potential challenge of using artificial intelligence in education?

One challenge of using artificial intelligence in education is maintaining data privacy and security.

How can AI change the future of education?

AI has the potential to change education by providing personalized learning experiences, automating administrative tasks, and enhancing teacher-student interactions.

What are the benefits of integrating AI in virtual learning environments?

Integrating AI in virtual learning environments has several benefits. AI can analyze student interactions and adapt the content to suit their learning styles and preferences, making lessons more engaging and effective.

Delving Deeper:

For more in-depth discussions on these topics, check out our latest podcast where we explore the world of virtual learning.

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