The rise of AI using large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Google Bard is a major technological development that has the potential to revolutionize many industries, including education. These powerful AI systems have the potential to revolutionize traditional teaching methods, particularly those reliant on rote learning.

In this article, I will explore how large language models are about to reshape the landscape of school education. The current model of standard templated “question and answer” structure will become redundant. We will have to immediately adapt and emphasize the need to shift towards fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

In my opinion, we should move quickly and decisively to adopt to these advances and leverage the technology. Unless we take some urgent steps, we would be left behind in this fast-developing area where LLMs will have a particularly profound impact on the way that education is delivered and received.

As a nation, one of the biggest challenges facing Indian education is the sheer size of the country’s educational need. According to data that I have collated from various sources, we roughly have over 30% of our total population pursing education at some level (Primary, Secondary, Higher, Skills, Adult etc). This means we have a whopping 400 million individuals pursuing education at any given time. Not only does this mean that there is a huge demand for education and educational infrastructure, but there are not enough teachers (both in numbers and qualification) to meet that demand. LLMs could help to address this challenge by providing a scalable solution to the teacher shortage.

Here are some specific examples of how LLMs could be used to catalyze Indian education:

Overcoming the Limitations of the Current System: The Indian education system (notwithstanding the NEP structure) has been criticized for its heavy reliance on rote learning and memorization. Large language models can challenge this approach by providing students with access to vast amounts of information and encouraging critical thinking, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving skills. By leveraging these models, education can move away from a rigid and one-size-fits-all approach, catering to individual learning needs.

Addressing the problem of acute teacher shortage / teaching capacity: LLMs can be used to augment teacher capacity (we no longer need “experts” in each subject) with either enabling “para-teachers” with the same tools and support that a B-Ed degree bestows or using “virtual” teachers. LLMs could also be used to provide feedback to teachers on their teaching methods. This would help teachers to improve their teaching and better meet the needs of their students. A significant amount of the teacher’s time is currently being spent on preparation for and execution of assessments, correction, scoring / grading etc. These can be completely automated allowing the teacher(s) to focus on higher level tasks.

Empowering Teachers as Facilitators: These AI support technologies can empower educators to adopt a more facilitative role. With access to advanced AI technologies, teachers can become mentors and guides, leveraging the models to provide personalized support, address doubts, and create interactive learning experiences. This shift allows teachers to focus on fostering students’ emotional intelligence, social skills, and ethical considerations.

Promoting Access to Quality Education: One of the significant challenges in Indian education is the disparity in access to quality resources and teachers across different regions. Large language models can bridge this gap by providing students, regardless of their geographic location, with access to high-quality educational content and expert guidance. This democratization of education has the potential to level the playing field and empower students from all backgrounds.

Personalized Learning for Enhanced Learning Outcomes: Large language models can analyze individual student performance and tailor the learning experience accordingly. By adapting to students’ strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles, these models can provide personalized feedback, adaptive assessments, and targeted interventions. This personalized approach can significantly enhance learning outcomes and help students reach their full potential.

Fostering Critical Thinking and Creativity: Traditional Indian education often emphasizes rote memorization, leaving little room for critical thinking and creativity. Large language models can revolutionize this aspect by encouraging students to think critically, ask probing questions, and explore multiple perspectives. These models can inspire creativity, facilitate collaborative problem-solving, and nurture innovative thinking among students.

Nurturing Digital Literacy and 21st Century Skills: In today’s digital era, it is crucial for students to develop digital literacy and 21st-century skills. Large language models can serve as tools to enhance students’ technological literacy, helping them navigate and critically evaluate online information. Furthermore, these models can facilitate the development of skills such as communication, collaboration, creativity, and adaptability, which are essential for success in the modern world.

Addressing Challenges and Ethical Considerations: As with any technological advancement, the integration of large language models in education comes with its own set of challenges and ethical considerations. It is important to address concerns related to data privacy, algorithmic biases, and the need for responsible AI usage. Educators, policymakers, and stakeholders must work together to ensure the ethical deployment and equitable access to these technologies.

Note of caution

            In India, Primary and Secondary education is a state subject and to the extent of the state syllabus, there is already some tension on the content being taught. We would need to be even more careful as some of these technologies lead to “un-supervised” learning (not just for machines in the AI context, but also students ie. children / youth). This raises the spectre of unbridled influence on impressionable minds.

Conclusion:

In the context of Indian education, while the integration of these AI models is being perceived by some as a threat to the existing system and will undoubtedly have its push-back, it is essential to view them as catalysts for positive transformation. This will be a great equalizer.

Going forward, we think educational institutions will play a more “social” role. It will be the physical location for experimenting (group exercises), socializing (new ideas and thoughts), venue for expressions (debates, events) etc, rather than being a venue for “classroom learning”. Teaching should therefore shift to more of coaching, mentoring and nurturing.

Infact, we do believe these trends will lead to greater focus on PHYGITAL models of education delivery. The best of teachers and content delivery from a central place, but with local mentors and monitoring.

By leveraging these models, Indian education can evolve from a system focused on rote learning to one that fosters critical thinking, personalized learning, and 21st-century skills. Embracing the potential of large language models can pave the way for an inclusive, learner-centric, and future-ready education system in India.

I believe, we, as a nation, DO NOT HAVE A CHOICE.

We need to use these technologies as a catalyst for positive change in Indian education and do so URGENTLY. If there ever was a need for us to get to mission-mode, then, this is it.