Exploring the Educational Potential of Generative Artificial Intelligence
Date 23 February 2024
Insights from Senior Lecturer in Education David Meechan on Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) as a diverse and constantly evolving field. David advocates for the use of GenAI tools, which he believes offer varied, specific, and potentially creative results, revolutionising education and supporting lifelong learning
In this condensed talk from the Vulcan Sessions on 26 January 2024, Senior Lecturer in Education David Meechan discusses the opportunities and considerations of using AI in education.
Introducing the concept of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) as a diverse and constantly evolving field without a consistent definition among scholars, David shares personal examples of how GAI can help support students by scaffolding their learning and reducing the initial cognitive load through the creation of basic first drafts.
David expresses, ‘I’m a big believer in experiential learning, providing children, and now students, with experiences they can build on.’ Therefore, he advocates for the use of GenAI tools, which offer ‘varied, specific, and potentially creative results, revolutionising education and supporting lifelong learning.’
Emphasising the importance of the ethical use AI tools in education, he argues for engagement with a wide range of GenAI tools to prepare students for navigating future changes in the education and technological landscape.
Richard Byles, Learning Technologist at the University of Northampton