AI+Education: A Dialogue on Development Between China and the U.S.

Team Introduction

As we enter the era of generative artificial intelligence, questions arise: How will AI innovate education? How will AI impact educational development? And how will AI, as a transformative force, shape the future of education in both China and the U.S.? These are not only discussions about the current application of AI technologies but also forward-looking thoughts about the future of education.

With boundless imagination about the future of education, the "TEEA" practice team set out to explore the theme "How Generative AI Shapes Future Education." From July 24 to August 7, 2024, the team conducted field research in New York and Boston.

From the perspectives of global competence, exploration of future education, and sustainable development, the team visited educational institutions, universities, and AI companies in both China and the U.S., engaging in interviews with professors, dialogues with students, random street interviews, and visits to international organizations. Throughout the process, the team deepened their understanding of cultural differences in education and focused on the shared challenges and opportunities in global educational development, exploring the transformative potential of AI in education.

Achievements Overview

Global Competence: From Home to Abroad

Before setting out, the team conducted interviews and discussions with various educational stakeholders to deeply understand the AI-powered teaching initiatives. The team also consulted educators who had implemented AI teaching assistants, gaining firsthand insights into AI-enhanced teaching experiences. One educator noted that "AI-driven adaptive classrooms offer a high level of real-time interaction, meeting students' needs to ask questions and receive immediate answers, unlike traditional online courses."

The team also visited a major education company to investigate the development and application of large-scale AI models in education. One such AI model has achieved notable success in mathematical problem-solving, offering students a personalized and efficient learning experience.

During their visit to the U.S., the team engaged in street interviews, gathering diverse perspectives on AI in education from various social groups. The team shared China's innovations and practices in AI+Education, receiving praise from interviewees who recognized the significance of China's experience for educational reform worldwide.

Exploring Future Education: From Experience to Consensus

The team visited prestigious U.S. universities and engaged in discussions on the specific applications of AI in education. They also held talks with AI research and development teams, exploring various forms of AI-empowered education. Additionally, they visited schools to discuss the potential of AI+Education at the K-12 level.

Throughout the project, the team participated in international forums and conferences on AI and education, enriching their understanding of global trends in AI+Education.

Experts noted that education in the AI era should focus on developing students’ technological, data, and humanistic literacy. Humanistic literacy, in particular, is seen as essential for a well-rounded personality in a world increasingly shaped by AI. The team realized that AI is triggering profound changes in education, transforming both teaching and learning roles. With AI, students are becoming self-directed learners, while teachers are evolving from mere knowledge transmitters to designers and facilitators of learning.

Sustainability: From Theory to Application

During their time in the U.S., the team explored the implications of AI for educational equity. The complexities of educational inequality in the U.S., which involve socioeconomic, racial, and gender factors, were examined in-depth. The team learned that while AI tools can provide greater access to quality educational resources, a digital divide remains, as some students lack the necessary infrastructure or skills to effectively use these tools.

One volunteer from a U.S. university mentioned that children from disadvantaged backgrounds often struggle with basic computer operations, highlighting the unequal access to technology.

In an effort to bridge the information gap, the team developed an AI-driven tool to assist students, hoping to raise awareness of AI+Education and encourage its broader adoption.