As a participant at the 2024 Yidan Prize Summit, I saw examples of data-driven solutions and innovative approaches to learning that inspired reflection — especially as International Day of Education 2025 spotlights AI and education.

AI is not a replacement; it can enhance human capabilities in education

Through examples from Wuhan University of Technology, Professor Yang Zongkai showed how AI-powered systems like ‘Xiaoya’ create personalized learning environments while maintaining agency during teaching. He emphasizes the need for students to develop "diverse skills"  — including critical thinking, computational thinking, and problem-solving  — which are crucial to navigating an AI-driven world.

AI can democratize access to quality education

AI-powered learning can provide individualized attention and tutoring to students who, due to resource constraints or geographical limitations, might not otherwise have access to one-on-one instruction.

By analyzing learning patterns and adapting content delivery in real-time, systems like ‘Xiaoya’ can simulate the benefits of personalized tutoring at scale. This technological advancement is a significant step toward educational equity, making high-quality, personalized education universally accessible regardless of students' socioeconomic background or location.

We need to embrace AI as a collaborative tool

While some view AI's ability to generate human-like text as a threat to traditional teaching, this perspective overlooks the opportunity to reimagine education in the AI era.

As a lecturer at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), I've witnessed the transformative impact of large language models on language education. Rather than taking defensive measures like reverting to closed-book exams or relying heavily on AI detection tools, we need to embrace AI as a collaborative tool that enhances human capabilities.

So how do we prepare students for the future of AI in education?

The key lies in fostering meaningful human-AI partnerships. Students must develop not only traditional communication skills but also the ability to effectively interact with AI systems. That ranges from crafting precise prompts and critically evaluating AI-generated content, to understanding the fundamental capabilities and limitations of language models. This also involves teaching them to maintain their authentic voice while leveraging AI as a powerful learning tool.

In HKBU’s language courses, we're pioneering this approach by integrating AI collaboration exercises that emphasize human agency and critical thinking. Students learn to work alongside AI writing assistants while developing their own judgment and creativity.

Instead of viewing AI as a threat or a tool for cheating, we're teaching students to become informed users who can harness AI's potential while preserving their unique human perspectives and problem-solving abilities. This preparation is crucial for a future where success will increasingly depend on effective human-AI collaboration.

Balancing technology and human touch

For International Day of Education, Dr Charles CHEN Yidan reflected on what we need to learn, unlearn, and relearn. It’s a reminder of our path forward to achieving the UNSDGs and beyond as we navigate the transformative impact of AI in education.

The successful integration of AI at Wuhan University of Technology shows how we can harness technology while maintaining human agency, fostering diverse skills and critical thinking that are essential for lifelong learning in our rapidly evolving world. Whether through global initiatives or local implementations at institutions like HKBU, we can balance technological advancement with human-centered learning, harnessing technology as a tool for educational empowerment. 

——
Dr Simon Wang
Lecturer, Language Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University

Photo by Headway on Unsplash