Will tutors be replaced by Artificial Intelligence?
In recent years, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked debates and speculation about the future of many, many professions. One profession that often finds itself at the center of this discussion is tutoring. Tutors play a crucial role in education, providing personalized guidance and support to students. However, with the emergence and development of more advanced AI technologies, there is a question arising: will tutors eventually be replaced by AI?
The short answer is: no. Not yet, at least. While Artificial Intelligence has the potential to enhance tutoring experience, it is unlikely to completely replace human tutors.
Let’s dive deeper in this article to know the reasoning of why AI cannot completely replace tutors.
The Role of AI in Education
Undeniably, AI has already made their advancements into education. Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS) has been developed to assist students in various subjects. These systems use algorithms to analyze student performance and deliver personalized feedback.
Let’s look at an example when we use ChatGPT and ask on how to solve a math equation.
Here we can see how fast and accurate it is for ChatGPT to answer a mathematical equation, which for some, might take some time.
Next, let’s try asking ChatGPT for a definition of something complex.
There, you can see how you can ‘tweak’ the instruction to make the Artificial Intelligence do as what you say. In this case, ChatGPT explained something complex, but using simple terms that can be understood by children.
The Human Element in Tutoring Students
Tutoring goes beyond simply sharing knowledge; it involves a special human touch. Tutors offer personalized guidance and create a supportive environment where students can freely ask questions and seek clarity. This one-on-one interaction fosters trust and strengthens the learning experience.
Moreover, human tutors possess social and emotional intelligence that AI lacks. They can empathize with students, recognizing their frustrations, fears, and anxieties. This empathetic understanding enables tutors to provide emotional support and guidance, greatly boosting students’ confidence and overall well-being. No matter how advanced Artificial Intelligence becomes, it cannot replicate this essential aspect of human interaction.
Malaysia and Technology
The implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia due to the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly influenced the way technology is utilized by Malaysians. With restrictions in place, people have increasingly relied on online technology for communication, work, entertainment, accessing essential services, and most importantly, education.
During the lockdown period, educational institutions swiftly embraced digital tools and platforms to facilitate remote learning for students. Video conferencing software like Google Meet and Zoom, along with e-learning platforms, played a crucial role in maintaining productivity and ensuring educational continuity. The Ministry of Education Malaysia also embraced technology to provide education to students amidst the challenging circumstances.
Human Adaptation in Tutoring Students
As everyone students are unique and have different learning levels, it means that tutors require different types of adaptability and flexibility. Skilled tutors can assess a student’s learning style and tailor their teaching approach accordingly. They have the ability to identify areas where the student may be struggling and adjust their methods to effectively address these challenges. Even though Artificial Intelligence is capable of analyzing vast amounts of data, it may lack the intuition and nuanced understanding required to adapt to individual student needs.
Furthermore, tutors serve as mentors, motivating and inspiring students to develop confidence and a passion for learning. They go beyond the syllabus, offering guidance on study skills, time management, and critical thinking. The mentorship role that tutors excel in is very difficult for Artificial Intelligence to replicate. While AI can provide information and answer questions within predefined parameters, it will struggle to inspire and encourage personal growth in students.
Conclusion
It is not denying that Artificial Intelligence continues to grow and advance rapidly, the role of human tutors in education remains invaluable. The human element of tutoring, including the emotional connection, adaptability, and mentorship, cannot be easily replaced. However, AI can serve as a valuable complement, offering technological advancements and personalized support. By combining the strengths of both AI and human tutors, we can create a more comprehensive approach that benefits students in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. So, rather than replacing tutors, AI has the potential to revolutionize and enhance the tutoring landscape, ultimately improving the educational experience for all.
