Sansad TV: AI in Education | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

Technology has always been important in education, but its current use is more widespread than ever due to the increased availability of smart devices and online learning materials. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has added a new dimension to education, and the National Education Policy of 2020 (NEP 2020) recognized its immense potential and recommended integrating it into the education system. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) introduced AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the school curriculum for classes VI to X to promote technology integration. AI has the power to transform education, making it more efficient, effective, and accessible to students worldwide. However, experts emphasize the need for ethical and responsible use of AI in education, ensuring that it complements the role of human teachers rather than replacing them.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Education in India

• India has the highest relative AI skill penetration rate, and increasing AI literacy is crucial for the country. 
• In today's rapidly changing world, it is challenging to keep up with current trends and continuously redesign education. 
• This is where AI can have a remarkable impact.
• AI can analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions, overcoming the limitations of traditional learning methods. 
• It reduces time and resource wastage during the grading process by providing real-time feedback to students, helping them understand their performance levels and areas of expertise. 
• This valuable information can motivate students to strive for improvement.
• Moreover, AI allows for personalized learning experiences by adapting the curriculum to individual learners' needs. 
• It can recommend excellent resources and redirect students to free learning materials. 
• AI also enables educators to create industry-relevant and upgradable curricula, enhancing the learning and training of students nationwide. 
• By interacting with students and predicting their learning speed based on past behavior, AI can adjust the course's pace and presentation for optimal learning.

Government Initiatives:

• The NEP 2020 emphasizes the use of digital tools, including AI, in education to meet the skill demands of Industry 4.0. 
• The CBSE offers AI as an elective subject for ninth-grade classes. 
• The government has launched programs such as the National Program on AI, AIRAWAT (Artificial Intelligence Research, Analytics, and Knowledge Assimilation Platform), and the National Strategy for AI to promote the integration of AI in education.

Lack of AI Research and Development in India:

• In India, the focus of both the government and companies has been primarily on AI applications rather than research and development (R&D). 
• Furthermore, India does not rank among the top 10 nations in AI research. 
• The US, China, and the EU are leading the race in AI research, with the US currently in the lead. 
• India's lack of focus on research puts it at risk of being on the wrong side of techno-colonialism, where countries controlling a technology exploit others that rely on access to it.
• To address this, India needs a long-term plan that prioritizes R&D, allocates funds for research, attracts research talent through incentives, and involves major corporations. 
• The government must adopt a long-term perspective to ensure India becomes a leader rather than remaining dependent on AI technology.

Way Forward

• To harness the benefits of AI, it is important to teach ethics related to AI. 
• AI and similar solutions have the potential to automate routine tasks and replace low-skilled workers. 
• It is crucial to address algorithmic biases and discrimination in AI systems. 
• Involving the private sector and public-private partnerships in AI product development is essential. 
• AI should be utilized to promote equality, equity, inclusion, and improved learning outcomes. 
• Additionally, AI can be used to incorporate linguistic diversity. 
• Algorithm transparency is key to establishing trust in AI, and efforts must be made to prevent non-state actors from weaponizing AI. 
• By leveraging data and AI, India can achieve its ambitious goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2025. 
• Extensive utilization of AI in sectors such as agriculture, MSMEs, financial services, healthcare, energy, and logistics is necessary to create a thriving AI economy.