Abstract
This chapter seeks to conduct a critical analysis and synthesis of relevant literature on the ethical guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Moreover, this chapter intended to discuss the approaches that could be used to ensure effective and efficient use of AI in education. The chapter also sheds light on the implication of AI in education which might be the directives to educational stakeholders such as policy makers, educators, students, researchers, and school leaders. This chapter calls for institutions to establish clear policies and frameworks that align with these guidelines and incorporate them into their decision-making processes. The chapter suggests that ongoing training should be provided to educators and stakeholders to ensure they understand the ethical considerations and implications of AI in education sector. Additionally, regular audits and evaluations should be conducted to identify bias, potential impact, and address any unintended consequences and make necessary improvements.
TopIntroduction
Computers in education have had mixed results for decades. Computers sometimes work differently than advertised (McFarlane, 2019). We use AI systems daily. Evaluating their impact on society is crucial as they evolve and data use grows, particularly in education and training. Students and teachers can use AI-powered apps inside and outside classrooms. There is widespread agreement that using AI in classrooms is among the century's most significant advances (Becker et al., 2018; Seldon & Abidoye, 2018). More must be known about what ethical principles should drive the design, development, and deployment of trustworthy AI in education despite the rising popularity of AI for education (AIED) and the increased need under COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated technology adoption in the education sector, including Artificial Intelligence (AI). With the shift to remote learning due to school closures and social distancing measures, AI has played a crucial role in facilitating virtual classrooms (Shah & Sarker, 2020).
AI-powered platforms and tools enable teachers to deliver online lessons, interact with students, and manage coursework. These platforms often incorporate features like video conferencing, chatbots, and content management systems, providing a more seamless virtual learning experience. AI-driven adaptive learning platforms have become even more relevant during the pandemic. These platforms use AI algorithms to assess students' knowledge and skills, identify learning gaps, and provide personalized learning paths. As students navigate remote learning environments, adaptive learning systems can adapt to their needs, ensuring targeted support and a tailored learning experience (Lepori et al., 2020; UNESCO, 2020). Google Classroom helps teach and learn. Students receive real-time feedback on their progress as they complete tasks. Visual explanations and films can help struggling students. Since time limits prevent real-time tutoring, teachers cannot execute these activities. AI automation allows for this type of problem resolution.
AI has been leveraged to automate remote learning scenarios' assessment and feedback processes. Through natural language processing and machine learning techniques, AI algorithms can analyze students' written responses, provide instant feedback, and generate automated grading. This allows for timely assessment, immediate feedback, and tracking of student progress, even in virtual classrooms (Coniam, 2020). AI-powered virtual tutors and mentoring systems have gained popularity during the pandemic. These systems provide individualized student support by simulating one-on-one interactions with tutors or mentors. Through AI chatbots or virtual assistants, students can receive guidance, ask questions, and access resources anytime, helping to bridge the gap caused by the lack of in-person support (Vandewaetere et al., 2020). The pandemic has generated vast amounts of data related to remote learning. AI-based data analytics tools enable educational institutions to analyze this data to gain insights into student engagement, performance, and overall well-being (Ifenthaler, 2020). These insights can help identify areas for improvement, track student progress, and inform decision-making to enhance remote learning strategies. AI-powered tools have been developed to provide social and emotional support to students during the pandemic. Chatbots and virtual assistants with sentiment analysis capabilities can detect and respond to students' emotional states (Clarke, 2019). These tools offer resources, coping strategies, and referrals to mental health professionals, helping to address the dynamic challenges students may face during remote learning (Rambe, 2020).
Key Terms in this Chapter
Artificial Intelligence: To create and use computer systems or machines that can carry out tasks that generally need human intelligence is known as “artificial intelligence” (AI). It includes various approaches and methods to give computers the capacity for perception, reasoning, learning, and decision-making. AI aims to simulate human cognitive processes, such as problem-solving, pattern recognition, natural language understanding, and decision-making, to perform tasks autonomously or with minimal human intervention.
Education: is the acquisition of information and understanding using formal instruction, study, or observation. It is a never-ending procedure that helps people grow in all aspects of themselves: mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically. Education is crucial in personal growth, fostering critical thinking, promoting socialization, and preparing individuals for societal roles.
Technology: Use scientific information, apparatus, and techniques to produce usable items, services, or systems. It incorporates an extensive choice of tools, machines, devices, and techniques developed and utilized to solve problems, enhance productivity, and improve the quality of life. Technology is crucial in various domains, including communication, transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, and education.
Ethical Guidelines: are rules or principles for making moral judgments and behavior in a particular context or domain. They serve as a moral compass, guiding individuals or organizations to act by ethical standards and values. Ethical guidelines help ensure responsible and ethical conduct by establishing standards of behavior, promoting fairness, protecting rights, and minimizing harm.