Imagine waking up to a world where your every need, want and desire is met with ease and efficiency; where technology anticipates your next move before you even realize it. This may sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), this future is rapidly becoming a reality. From the way we work to the way we learn, the impact of AI is transforming our lives in ways we never thought possible.

What is AI? 

Before diving into the ways AI is changing the way we work and learn, it is important to begin with a basic understanding: what is AI? According to Britannica, artificial intelligence is “the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.” 

The term “AI” is now widely used to encompass a range of developments in computing, systems and technology. It refers to the ability of computer programs to execute tasks or address problems that typically require the type of reasoning associated with human intelligence, including the capability of learning from previous experiences. 

Work

AI is transforming the way we work and its impact is both profound and far-reaching. According to Forbes, “the automation of certain tasks has the potential to disrupt a staggering 300 million jobs worldwide.” This level of potential job disruption we are witnessing is unlike anything seen before. Furthermore, a forecast by the World Economic Forum indicates that by 2025, machines are expected to handle half of all work tasks, worsening existing inequalities in the workforce, as reported by Raconteur. 

As AI technologies continue to advance, they are increasingly capable of performing complex tasks previously reserved for only humans. This not only streamlines processes and improves efficiency, but also raises many concerns about job displacement. However, it’s important to note that AI presents new opportunities for collaboration between humans and machines. By utilizing AI’s ability to analyze and process information, workers can improve their decision-making, problem-solving and creative thinking skills. This collaboration enables more innovative ideas, increased productivity and the ability to tackle difficult challenges. 

Learn

The rise of AI-powered resources such as ChatGPT have revolutionized the way we acquire knowledge, permanently altering the learning landscape. As Forbes states, “With the use of AI, learning can be tailored and adapted to every student’s individual needs, goals and abilities through personalized programs, which can help fill any gaps in learning and teaching.” This customization allows students to receive targeted instruction, ensuring they grasp concepts more effectively. 

However, the availability of AI generative tools like ChatGPT and My AI on Snapchat has brought about changes in the way students learn, potentially harming their critical thinking and creativity skills. These AI tools provide ready access to information and answers, bypassing the need for extensive research or critical analysis. While they offer convenience, students may overly rely on these resources, neglecting the development of their independent thoughts and ideas.

With this easy access to AI generative tools comes a shift in the role of teachers. As noted by Gold Penguin, “teachers will have to focus on teaching and assessing skills that are difficult for AI to replicate like critical thinking, creativity, communication and problem-solving skills.” By emphasizing these essential abilities, teachers will better prepare students for the complex challenges of the future

AI at Foothill Tech

While AI is proving to revolutionize the workplace and institutions of learning worldwide, it has also made a profound impact on students at Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech). Students have expressed their own views on how AI has influenced the way they learn, communicate and express themselves. According to one Foothill Tech student, “I believe ChatGPT has helped me improve as a writer. It allows me to begin with my own ideas but will show me a better way to communicate them.” On the contrary, a second Foothill Tech student expressed an opposing viewpoint stating, “It is not improving my writing skills at all. Rather than search and think for better ways to say something, I rely on ChatGPT to do it for me.” Another Foothill Tech student summed it up, stating, “Schools are going to be changed forever, not sure how exactly yet, but education will always be different due to AI.”

As AI technology continues to evolve, the way we work, learn and ultimately live will also evolve. There is no doubt whether AI will have drastic impacts on education and the workplace.  However, the extent of those changes has yet to be fully understood.