#238: Transforming Education with AI Advancements with Alex Jenkins

In this episode, Alex Jenkins, Director at WA Data Science Innovation Hub, discusses the potential of AI advancements in revolutionising the education system. Jenkins envisions a future where education moves away from the one-size-fits-all approach and embraces a mastery model, allowing students to progress at their own pace and ensuring complete understanding before moving on to the next topic. The use of AI as virtual educational assistants can provide personalised tutoring, benefiting students by improving their educational outcomes. Studies have shown that one-on-one tutoring can significantly elevate students' performance.

Large language models, such as AI assistants, can be tailored to individual students' learning styles and strengths. This personalisation can enhance critical thinking skills, broaden students' worldview, and help them make informed decisions about their academic journey. By leveraging AI, teachers can manage classrooms with the assistance of virtual teaching aides, enabling each student to master the material before progressing to the next level.

Looking ahead to the next twelve months, Jenkins anticipates the transition to a mastery model of education, especially in STEM subjects like mathematics. This approach will ensure students achieve true mastery of concepts before moving forward. Furthermore, AI technology can enhance teacher productivity by providing resources, such as lesson plans and tailored exercises, that cater to individual students' skill levels. Khan Academy's Carmego AI serves as a leading example in this field, offering personalised tutoring and empowering teachers with effective teaching tools.

Jenkins acknowledges the importance of considering the practical implementation of AI in education. While the technology holds immense potential, it should not replace socialisation, interaction, and hands-on learning in the classroom. 

While concerns about hallucinations and AI-generated errors exist, Jenkins believes these risks are manageable and can be minimised through guided use cases and ongoing improvements in technology. He compares the trajectory of large language models to the development of space travel, where initial imperfections and limitations pave the way for future advancements and increased reliability.

Reflecting on his personal journey in technology and data science, Jenkins emphasises the importance of promoting AI and data science education. He focuses on stimulating demand for AI services, fostering collaboration between academia, public services, and private industry, and encouraging students to pursue data science as a career path. Through initiatives like hackathons, the potential of AI in areas like emergency services becomes evident, showcasing how technology can save lives.

Lastly, Jenkins discusses the upcoming Data & AI for Business Conference & Exhibition, scheduled to take place in August in Western Australia. The conference aims to explore the potential of data analytics and artificial intelligence in transforming businesses. It welcomes participants regardless of their AI or data backgrounds, as the focus is on understanding how these technologies can drive business growth and change.

Enjoy the show!

Thank you to our sponsor, Talent Insights Group!

Visit the WA Data Science Innovation Hub https://wadsih.org.au/

Learn more about the Data & AI for Business Conference & Exhibition 2nd & 3rd August: https://wadsih.org.au/conference/

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