Introduction to AI in Education
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education is a topic of much debate. While many educators in the West see AI as a threat to be managed, more Chinese classrooms are treating it as a skill to be mastered. This difference in approach is reflected in the way AI is perceived in the two cultures.
The Cultural Divide
In the West, there is a concern that AI will undermine academic integrity and replace human teachers. However, in China, AI is seen as a tool that can enhance education and improve productivity. The Chinese-developed model DeepSeek is gaining popularity globally and is viewed as a source of national pride. The conversation in Chinese universities has shifted from worrying about the implications for academic integrity to encouraging literacy, productivity, and staying ahead.
Public Sentiment
A report on global AI attitudes from Stanford University’s Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI) found that China leads the world in enthusiasm for AI. About 80% of Chinese respondents said they were “excited” about new AI services, compared with just 35% in the US and 38% in the UK. This attitude is not surprising, given China’s long tradition of believing in technology as a driver of national progress.
From Taboo to Toolkit
Liu Bingyu, a professor at the China University of Political Science and Law, says AI can act as “instructor, brainstorm partner, secretary, and devil’s advocate.” She recommends that students use generative AI to write literature reviews, draft abstracts, generate charts, and organize thoughts. However, she emphasizes that AI can’t replace human judgment and that only high-quality input and smart prompting can lead to good results.
Using AI in Education
Liu has created slides that lay out detailed examples of good and bad prompts, along with one core principle: AI can’t replace human judgment. She encourages students to use AI as a tool to enhance their learning, but not to rely solely on it. By using AI in this way, students can develop their critical thinking skills and learn to use AI effectively.
Conclusion
The use of AI in education is a complex issue, and different cultures have different approaches to it. While some see AI as a threat, others see it as an opportunity to enhance education and improve productivity. By understanding the cultural divide and the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI, we can work towards creating a more effective and efficient education system.
FAQs
Q: How do Chinese educators view AI?
A: Chinese educators view AI as a skill to be mastered and a tool that can enhance education and improve productivity.
Q: What is the difference in approach to AI between the West and China?
A: The West sees AI as a threat to be managed, while China sees it as an opportunity to enhance education and improve productivity.
Q: How can AI be used in education?
A: AI can be used to write literature reviews, draft abstracts, generate charts, and organize thoughts, but it should not replace human judgment.
Q: What is the core principle of using AI in education?
A: The core principle is that AI can’t replace human judgment and that only high-quality input and smart prompting can lead to good results.
