By J1 Reporter Olivia French

AI is evolving in the classroom and workplace, but outside of that, it is a controversial subject. As much as the benefits of increased efficiency and creativity that AI can bring are clear, teachers and professionals highlight the importance of balance. 

In order for AI to be a useful tool in everyday life, it must be used to supplement human capability and create bridges, not destroy them. 

Marian librarian Mrs. Molly Raabe sees the value in AI technology as an aid to assist with research and planning lessons. 

While Raabe is mindful to indicate that AI doesn’t replace her work, it makes the process of research easier. “It’s not doing my research for me, but it helps me refine topics and find proper articles while still doing my own research,” Raabe said. 

AI also assists in creating innovative lesson plans and activities, which make learning more interesting for students. But Raabe also refers to increasing usage of AI-generated content. “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to know what is written by a true author versus an AI. Whose work is being utilized?” Raabe asked.

 She fears that the capability of AI to bring information from various places increases questions regarding intellectual property and originality. Also, she identifies the risk that students will be over-reliant on AI, delaying their critical and creative thinking. 

Natalya Miller, Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center, is concerned about the overall effect of AI on the socialization of students. 

Miller says that the effect of AI, particularly on younger students, can be negative at first. “You have to learn how to learn,” Miller said. 

Without a solid educational framework, students might use AI shortcuts that impede their growth. Furthermore, Miller is concerned about AI’s role in diminishing essential social skills, because humans are wired to connect with other humans, not machines. 

Despite possible negatives, AI can be a useful tool if applied responsibly.

Miller points out the potential of AI to augment challenging tasks in the field of air traffic control, where highly targeted algorithms can best human abilities. “AI should enhance human existence and not control it,” Miller said. 

It seems that AI is seldom employed to augment human talents and relationships, it frequently seems to substitute for them, causing an imbalance.

As AI continues to evolve, it’s still a useful tool with good potential benefits but also possible challenges.