The Thunder Bolt

Recently, the head of Concordia International School Hanoi, Dr. Doug Grove, engaged in a collaborative meeting with the British University of Vietnam and VinUniversity to delve into discussions about the ethical implications of AI. This insightful session, organized by the British Chamber of Commerce, explored the responsible and conscientious use of artificial intelligence.

“It was a great opportunity to engage in this conversation with Dr. Mike Perkins (BUV) and Daniel Ruelle (VinUniversity). I really appreciate BritCham for putting the event together. I feel fortunate to have been able to discuss my current thoughts and opinions on AI from the perspective of an international school leader. I learned some new things from Mike and Dan during the conversation, and I hope those who participated did as well. While AI is disruptive and certainly something new, I also recognized in this discussion that aspects of teaching students valuable critical thinking skills and ethics have continued to remain a constant in education for centuries. I look forward to learning more about AI and hope to get back together with Mike and Dan for another conversation in the future.” Dr. Doug Grove (Head of Concordia International School Hanoi).

Through the discussion, several key points emerged, shedding light on the evolving role of AI in shaping the educational landscape. Here are the main takeaways from the insightful discussion:
AI Integration for Education: Beyond "Cheating"
The seminar emphasized the need to view AI as an integral part of the educational experience rather than stigmatizing it as a form of "cheating." Integrating AI tools into the learning process was highlighted as a means of enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for a tech-driven future.

Fostering Critical Thinking in AI Usage

While embracing AI, the seminar stressed the importance of maintaining and promoting critical thinking skills among students. It emphasized that students should not just use AI as a shortcut, but rather leverage it as a tool to augment their analytical and problem-solving abilities. Encouraging students to question and evaluate AI-generated information fosters a balanced approach to technology in education.

Educator Proficiency in AI Understanding

To effectively guide students in utilizing AI, educators need to have a comprehensive understanding of AI technologies. The seminar underscored the importance of educators acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills to incorporate AI into their teaching methods. Equipping teachers with this understanding enables them to mentor students in responsible and effective AI usage.

Teaching Students to Navigate AI

The seminar highlighted the role of educators in teaching students how to use AI responsibly. This involves imparting knowledge not only on how to harness the power of AI but also on recognizing and mitigating potential pitfalls, such as the dissemination of false information. Educators play a crucial role in preparing students to be discerning consumers of AI-generated content.

Addressing the Challenges of AI-Generated False Information

An essential aspect discussed was the potential for AI to produce false information. Understanding the limitations and challenges associated with AI helps educators guide students in critically evaluating the information they encounter. This awareness is vital for cultivating a media-literate generation capable of navigating the complexities of AI-generated content.

In conclusion, the seminar emphasized the transformative potential of integrating AI into education while acknowledging the importance of maintaining a balance that promotes critical thinking and responsible usage. Educators emerged as key players in this paradigm shift, requiring a deep understanding of AI to effectively guide students in leveraging its benefits while navigating its challenges.

Learn more about the integration of technology at Concordia Hanoi.