AI and Ed-Tech solutions may be just around the corner
Education is a “wicked problem” in the sense that it is a complex, multifaceted issue that has no simple, clear-cut solutions. I wrote about this here a long time ago.
The challenges faced by educators and policymakers are unique and constantly evolving, making it difficult to identify effective strategies and solutions.
With the rapid development of AI and ed-tech solutions, there is a growing need to find innovative ways to leverage these tools to address the complex challenges facing education today.
However, as with any wicked problem, there are no predetermined solutions, and it is essential that we approach the development and implementation of AI and ed-tech solutions with a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities involved.
All that aside though, here are some ideas below:
AI and Ed-Tech solution 1: Develop our own bespoke LLMs for niche education domains
We could develop a cutting-edge, proprietary large language model (LLM) that leverages the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and natural language processing to automate and enhance teaching and advice.
The LLM would be based on a comprehensive corpus of research and knowledge about literacy, numeracy, Mātauranga Māori, Pacific, cultural capability, neurodiversity, and more, specifically tailored to the unique needs of the New Zealand tertiary education sector.
The LLM could be used to create virtual teaching assistants or chatbots that can provide personalised, on-demand support to learners and educators.
These virtual assistants could be customised to reflect the unique cultural and linguistic characteristics of New Zealand learners and educators, and could be programmed to adapt to individual learning styles and preferences.
AI and Ed-Tech solution 2: Build an AI-powered, personalised professional learning and development (PLD) platform on the back of this LLM
Once we had the LLM (or multiple LLMs), then we could develop an AI-powered, personalised professional learning and development (PLD) platform that leverages the LLM to provide tailored support to individuals and organisations in the New Zealand tertiary education sector.
The platform would be able to analyse performance, expertise, knowledge gaps, interests, and collaboration patterns to design bespoke training pathways that meet the specific needs of each learner or organisation. The platform could also provide ongoing monitoring and feedback to help our learners (who are teachers) track their progress and identify areas for improvement.
AI and Ed-Tech solution 4: Leverage advances in Augmented Reality to design teaching simulations
In addition to our own teacher-education focused LLMs, we could also develop cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) teaching simulations that leverage the latest advancements in AI and computer vision to create immersive, interactive learning experiences for learners in the vocational education sector.
These simulations could help learners develop critical skills and knowledge in a range of vocational areas, from construction and trades to hospitality and tourism. The simulations could also be used to help educators develop their own teaching skills and techniques, allowing them to experiment with different approaches in a safe, risk-free environment.
AI and Ed-Tech solution 5: Develop a blockchain-enabled credentialing system
Develop a blockchain-enabled credentialing system that allows learners to earn and display digital badges and micro-credentials from providers with some leading to New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) approved qualifications.
The system would be built on a secure, decentralised blockchain network, allowing learners to verify their credentials independently and transparently. This would increase the credibility and portability of the digital badges and micro-credentials, helping learners to showcase their skills and knowledge to potential employers and educational institutions.
AI and Ed-Tech solution 6: Support for educators in the use of AI tools
Develop a comprehensive training programme to support educators in the use of AI tools like GPT and others to enhance learning, teaching, and assessment. The programme would include training on the use of prompt engineering, hybrid course development models, and other cutting-edge AI techniques.
It would also provide ongoing support and resources to help educators stay up-to-date with the latest developments in AI and education technology. This would enable educators to develop more personalised and engaging learning experiences for their students, improving learner outcomes and promoting greater innovation in the New Zealand tertiary education sector.
One thought