OpinionRevolutionizing education: How AI is transforming teaching in academia
Opinion
Revolutionizing education: How AI is transforming teaching in academia
"The future of education lies in the integration of advanced technologies like Generative AI," writes Tomer Zucker, VP Marketing at D-ID. "As higher education institutions adopt these tools, they can provide students with advanced learning experiences that meet the rapidly changing needs of the information age while maintaining a balance between technology and human interaction."
The technological revolution of recent years is gradually but steadily permeating various spheres of life, and education is one of the areas experiencing significant transformation. As the new academic year begins, an increasing number of institutions are adopting advanced technologies, led by Generative AI. Where artificial intelligence was once seen primarily as a support tool, it has now become a critical component of teaching and learning processes in academia.
Generative AI, which focuses on creating digital content, is reshaping learning by providing tools to create text, images, videos, and interactive avatars customized for students. Traditional learning methods, based on lectures and textbooks, are giving way to advanced technologies that offer more personalized, interactive, and dynamic learning experiences. This integration of AI in learning opens new horizons for how students engage with and understand material.
One of AI’s standout advantages is its ability to tailor learning experiences to meet each student’s unique needs. Rather than relying on standardized teaching methods, AI enables individualized learning, adjusting to each student’s knowledge level, preferred pace, and areas of interest. Students can choose their learning format—whether through text, videos, realistic simulations, or interactive discussions with a virtual character that responds in real-time. For example, students preparing for exams can use an avatar specializing in a specific field for simulations. Additionally, the system can adjust the complexity of questions based on student progress, actively enhancing their comprehension and engagement with the material.
AI also improves assessment and evaluation processes. Students are no longer bound to traditional exams with multiple-choice or short answers. AI-driven systems can analyze student performance over time and provide accurate, immediate feedback on their progress. This allows students to identify areas needing improvement and track their advancement toward learning goals. This process not only enhances understanding but also fosters personal skills such as time management and handling complex tasks.
Furthermore, the new technology enables a more practical and experiential learning approach. In academic settings such as medical or optometry schools, interactive avatars simulate real clinical situations. Students can practice with a virtual patient, preparing them better for the clinical realities they will face in the future. This capability to engage in real, complex scenarios and receive immediate feedback enables students to improve their skills in a safe, controlled environment.
However, this shift also presents new challenges for academic institutions. Alongside the technological benefits, it is essential to train faculty to use AI-based tools and to adapt curricula so they naturally integrate with new technologies. Some faculty members may find it challenging to adopt this technology, necessitating support and guidance from the institutions themselves. Additionally, the use of AI raises ethical issues, such as student data privacy and the impact on human interaction in teaching. Balancing technology with direct interaction between students and faculty is essential to maintain a collaborative learning environment.
The revolution in education is inevitable, and AI is already reshaping the way we teach and learn. Institutions that embrace new technologies can offer students richer, more tailored learning experiences that enhance their chances of success. As AI continues to evolve, it will further transform education, making it more interactive, dynamic, and accessible, and pushing learning to new heights.
The future of academic education lies in the integration of advanced technologies like Generative AI. As higher education institutions adopt these tools, they can provide students with advanced learning experiences that meet the rapidly changing needs of the information age while maintaining a balance between technology and human interaction.
Tomer Zuker is VP Marketing at D-ID.
