Do Android Teachers Dream of Electric Students? by Martine

Do Android Teachers Dream of Electric Students? by Martine - February 2018 Scholarship Essay

We have only recently begun developing the advanced technology necessary to study human brain activity in detail. By 2038, scientists will have fully mapped the connectivity between brain cells, setting the stage for giant leaps in our understanding of human thought and learning. Over the next two decades, breakthroughs in the field of artificial intelligence will make it possible to build highly sophisticated robot teaching assistants. These AI-enabled robots will be capable of using our new understanding of brain science to learn how humans learn. The goal sounds simple, but despite all of humanity's scientific achievements, our knowledge about this critical mental process remains incomplete.
By 2038, robot tutors will be able to tailor lessons to match the learning style of each individual student. While this will be particularly helpful for students with learning disabilities, it stands to benefit students at every age and grade level. The introduction of this technology will require fresh thinking about our education system. In the years to come, careful consideration should be made about the role of technology in the classroom.
There is, however, one thing that should not be up for debate. We should resist the temptation to entirely turn teaching over to machines no matter how technologically advanced we make our learning tools. The sharing of knowledge-from one human to another-is more than just a transfer of information. It is a defining experience for both teacher and student. To ignore this is to forfeit part of our humanity.