Rapid Advancement In AI Requires Comprehensive Reevaluation And Careful Use, Say Panelists At GAIN Summit

Riyadh: Experts gathered at the Global AI Summit (GAIN) in Riyadh this Tuesday emphasized the imperative need for a widespread reevaluation of educational norms and the mindful implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). The summit, which continues until September 12 at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, focuses on integrating AI to amplify human benefit while mitigating potential downsides.

During the thought-provoking session titled “Paper Overdue: Rethinking Schooling for Gen AI,” panelists explored AI’s burgeoning role in education, highlighting its capabilities from enhancing personalized learning algorithms to automating essay generation. There was a consensus on the necessity to reshape educational systems to better harmonize with AI advancements.

Edward Byrne, president of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, noted the exciting prospects for AI in the coming decade. “With our initiatives like individualized assessments, we are witnessing the emergence of exceptional young talents. AI is set to revolutionize our educational frameworks,” said Byrne. However, he cautioned against unrestrained application, advocating for a “carefully designed AI system,” particularly in assessments to ensure fairness and accuracy.

Alain Le Couedic, a senior partner at Artificial Intelligence Quartermaster, mirrored Byrne’s views on the cautious deployment of AI, emphasizing its potential benefits in learning and assessment if used judiciously. “AI should not replace traditional learning methods but should be used to enhance understanding and skills acquisition,” Le Couedic added.

Highlighting the student perspective, David Yarowsky, professor of computer science at Johns Hopkins University, pointed out the widespread acceptance of AI among students. “It's crucial to use AI conscientively to bolster, not replace, traditional educational techniques, ensuring it contributes to a comprehensive and equitable evaluation system,” he explained.

Manal Abdullah Alohali, dean of the College of Computer and Information Science at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, stressed the essential role of AI in contemporary education. “At our university, we are actively integrating AI into our programs and preparing to launch an extensive AI initiative next year. It’s vital that our students engage with AI ethically and critically,” she stated.

In a separate but equally engaging session titled “Elevating Spiritual Intelligence and Personal Well-being,” Deepak Chopra, founder of the Chopra Foundation and Chopra Global, delved into AI’s potential to transcend traditional spiritual teachings and enhance personal growth through technologies like augmented reality and the metaverse. “AI could help forge a world that’s more peaceful, just, and joyous by facilitating access to a diverse spectrum of philosophical and ethical insights,” Chopra remarked.

The GAIN Summit, under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and organized by the Saudi Data and AI Authority, aims to harness AI’s transformative potential responsibly and innovatively to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.