Educator tasks African teachers on AI

AN educator, Mr Lanre Oguntoye, has urged African teachers to embrace Artificial Intelligence ( AI) rather than watch and worry as new technological trends unfold.

He noted that learning about technology and adopting its use in teaching pedagogy would enhance efficiency.

Oguntoye, who is an assistant principal at Greensprings School, Anthony campus, spoke at a webinar titled: “Education in the age of Artificial Intelligence” organised by Greensprings Training College.

He said: “Everyone is on a learning curve when it comes to AI. Thus, it is important for educators in Africa not to take the back seat. As the whole world is embracing AI, we also need to do so as individuals, and at an institutional level and not play the catch- up game.”

Building on his recommendation, Oguntoye highlighted the educational journey from the use of chalkboards, audio- visuals, computers, and digital technology to the now- emerging Artificial Intelligence.

He disclosed that learning experiences can now be optimised to suit each learner’s needs with technologies like AI- powered tutors, personalised learning platforms, automated grading systems, adaptive learning algorithms, and intelligent virtual assistants.

According to him, adopting the necessary mind shift would help educators appreciate Artificial Intelligence and incorporate it into their teaching practices.

He listed the required mindsets to include accepting change and understanding that strategies and methods keep on evolving, focusing on the strengths of AI, working against its weaknesses, and discouraging its abuse. In addition, he encouraged educators to tutor their students on how to use AI and not abuse it.

For instance, guiding the students in creating brilliant prompts on chatbots to help with their learning exercises, and using AI to generate useful flashcards to aid revision.