South Korea is rapidly emerging as a global leader in AI in education, with 30% of its schools now using AI-powered textbooks. During the APEC education summit, this important development was announced. It demonstrates the nation’s dedication to modern education.
On the other hand, Reid Hoffman, a LinkedIn co-founder, argues that educational institutions must also adapt. In his podcast, he urged academic institutions to reevaluate traditional exams and integrate AI into the teaching and learning process.
Inside South Korea’s AI Classrooms and Teaching Tools
The majority of South Korean schools use AI-powered digital textbooks. Everything from elementary school to high school is changing dramatically in the nation’s educational system. Furthermore, AI-enabled English and math textbooks are being used to boost student engagement and tailor the content to their specific needs.
For the first time in nine years, the recent APEC education ministers’ summit was held in South Korea, with this change serving as a central theme. Asian officials observed live classroom demonstrations, such as the one at Andeok Elementary School in Jeju. Fourth-grade math students used tablets to complete their work, and their answers were shown in real time on a digital board. It demonstrated how digital learning enhances classroom responsiveness and engagement for students.
Hoffman and Korea Push AI in Education Forward
The government has identified a few schools as digital learning models to promote best practices and gather feedback. However, South Korea still faces roadblocks, including uneven access to devices and the urgent need to train teachers. Despite the difficulties, its success offers a glimpse of what an expansive use of AI in education may hold.
As this revolution unfolds in schools, higher education is beginning to catch up. Recently, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman offered his thoughts on the subject. According to his “Possible” podcast, generative AI has made it too easy to form conventional essays. Therefore, he recommended that, rather than opposing AI tools for learning and grading, colleges should find more clever ways to use them.
Hoffman suggested adding oral exams or in-class projects where students use AI to assist them. Additionally, he pointed out that it’s better to push students to go beyond the generic feeling of most generative AI content. His advice was to change quickly or risk education becoming less important.
Is the World Ready for AI in Education?
Hoffman also warned that some universities are still using outdated teaching models. According to him, ignoring AI postpones the inevitable. Students will need to be able to work with generative AI rather than just avoiding it. Therefore, if this change is not implemented, schools may fall behind in preparing students for real-world careers.
Now that AI in education is becoming more popular worldwide, attention will shift to striking a balance between equity and technological innovation. South Korea serves as an example of how crucial teacher preparation and government assistance are to success. In the upcoming years, the global classroom will undoubtedly change as a result of voices like Hoffman advocating for reform in higher education.
Can AI Reshape How Students Learn?
Hoffman’s vision for universities and South Korean classrooms both indicate that AI in education is now a must. The educational landscape is rapidly changing, from embracing generative AI in universities to implementing digital learning in elementary schools. Therefore, the current challenge is to make that change inclusive, meaningful, and future-ready.
About The Author
