News Report: Seminar on AI in Education: Finding the Right Moments of Dependency, Scaffolding, and Competency
On 26 June 2024, a seminar titled "AI in Education: Finding the Right Moments of Dependency, Scaffolding, and Competency" was held at the Department of Mathematics and Information Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong, featuring Prof. Mutlu Cukurova from University of College London, the UK. In his presentation, Prof. Cukurova challenged the narrow view of AI as merely stochastic tools like ChatGPT, emphasising its potential to enhance our understanding of human learning processes. He introduced three conceptualisations of AI in education: the externalisation of cognition, the internalisation of AI models, and the extension of human cognition through tightly integrated human-AI systems. He argued for a balanced perspective that recognises AI's limitations while leveraging its capabilities to support human agency and cognitive development.
Concluding the seminar, Prof. Cukurova advocated for a comprehensive educational approach that includes teaching about AI itself, urging educational systems to innovate and adapt in an increasingly AI-driven world. His insights prompted lively discussions among attendees, highlighting the pressing need to prepare individuals for a future where AI technologies will require skills beyond those emphasised in traditional education. This seminar underscored the importance of understanding AI not just as a tool, but as a transformative element in the landscape of learning and education.
We also interviewed Prof. Cukurova about “How can we survive better in the academic world embedded with AI?”. Here is the interview video:
