This month’s TOPkit Digest is brought to you by Rohan Jowallah, Ed.D., Language and Literacy in Education, Senior Instructional Designer (Rohan.Jowallah@ucf.edu) and Jacob Bates, B.S., Computer Engineering, Project Manager (Jacob.Bates@ucf.edu). Both are from the Center for Distributed Learning at the University of Central Florida. They discuss the topic of AI in Education.

In this video, we explore how artificial intelligence (AI) transforms the educational landscape. Content includes several thought-provoking possibilities for AI systems in education, including personalized learning experiences, the use of algorithms to provide feedback and student support, and the creation of dynamic and engaging computer-generated learning environments.

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has created countless opportunities to enhance education. However, for the education sector to lead and make the most of these advancements and the emerging paradigm shift, policymakers, educators, instructional designers, and other stakeholders must embrace the necessary mindset and pathways. There should be an examination of the ethical concerns surrounding AI in education and how  policymakers and educators are working to ensure that instructors use AI responsibly and for the benefit of all students. 

Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality in Modern Classrooms. Diverse content delivery is critical for maintaining engagement and increasing learner retention. Virtual reality (VR) can provide alternative forms of content delivery, and artificial intelligence can help transform content into different formats. Teachers' roles as facilitators, mentors, and ethical standard-bearers become increasingly essential amid changes in conceptual thinking about educational technology. 

An avatar is employed to deliver a presentation on The Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality in Modern Classrooms.

Adapting to the AI Revolution: Evolving Roles and Responsibilities of Instructional Designers. Individuals must reposition their skill sets significantly to ensure continued relevance. Instructional designers must carefully assess skills that will be essential in the future.  

The video, Adapting to the AI Revolution: Evolving Roles and Responsibilities of Instructional Designers, delves into how IDs can adapt and thrive in the changing landscape of education and technology. AI is reshaping the field of instructional design. We explore how routine tasks like content creation and data analysis are automated, and how artificial intelligence personalizes learning and predicts learner performance, understanding AI capabilities, the need for data literacy, the focus on human-centered design, continuous learning, ethical considerations, collaboration with AI, and the acquisition of interdisciplinary skills.

Using AI to Design Course Objectives, Assessments, and Content. It is important that AI-generated information is reviewed and edited. There is no AI substitution for human review. Artificial intelligence can be incorporated into the curriculum to foster a positive perspective among students. It is important to note that AI can serve as a valuable support system for students who require accommodation. Thus, providing personalized assistance and addressing individual needs. By harnessing the power of AI in education, we can unlock innovative approaches that empower educators and learners alike. 

Summary. Integrating artificial intelligence in education is a complex endeavor that necessitates careful consideration of ethical issues and a comprehensive understanding of AI technologies. Without this essential knowledge, it can be challenging for practitioners to navigate the AI landscape effectively and ensure learner safety, engagement, and privacy.

Ethical considerations play a crucial role when implementing AI in education. Educators and administrators need to ponder the potential implications of using artificial intelligence systems and algorithms. This consideration involves addressing issues such as algorithmic bias, fairness, transparency, and accountability. It is essential to ensure that AI-powered educational tools and platforms are developed and deployed in a manner that promotes equal opportunities, respects diversity, and safeguards against discriminatory practices.

A few resource recommendations describe the principles needed for an AI framework and the implementation of teaching and learning with artificial intelligence:

Bren Bedford, MNM, SFC®, Web Project Analyst, Center for Distributed Learning, University of Central Florida

Florence Williams, Ph.D., Associate Instructional Designer, Center for Distributed Learning, University of Central Florida