The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Education
We are living in an era of digital transformation, spearheaded by artificial intelligence. The impact of incorporating intelligent systems into various fields, including education, is undeniable.
Generative artificial intelligence (Generative AI) has demonstrated its potential for education, as evidenced by the success of ChatGPT. Its appropriate use strengthens competencies for continuous and diverse learning (Lifelong Learning, Lifewide Learning, and Agile Learning). It also fosters content creation in various areas of knowledge. The applications of Generative AI in education are constantly expanding, from the introduction of advanced systems that can improve the teaching-learning processes to educational management.
As we continue exploring these potentialities, a crucial question, formulated by Neil Selwyn, arises: “Should robots replace the teaching profession?” The answer, according to Matt Miller in his book AI for Educators, lies in adopting a futuristic perspective that will prepare students for a tomorrow dominated by robots and intelligent systems (“Society 5.0”). Technological literacy is a key competency, according to the World Economic Forum, which underlines the need to learn and apply artificial intelligence effectively in diverse fields.
Despite exciting technological advances, ethical and moral challenges arise around the use of intelligent systems. Autonomous systems and algorithms can make decisions and manipulate behaviors that negatively impact people’s lives. In this context, there is a crucial need to develop competencies in these areas that result in ethical and moral decision-making.
Spiritual Intelligence: Walk Worthy of the Lord
The answer to these ethical challenges may lie in the development of spiritual intelligence. This form of intelligence allows the human being to be guided by a spiritual power in their thoughts and actions. This guidance provides ethical and moral discernment in decision-making as well as the self-control to face the different experiences of life. At the beginning of the Christian era, Paul prayed that the faithful brethren in Colossae would be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding [spiritual intelligence]” (Colossians 1:9 NKJV). Thus, they could “walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).
From a biblical viewpoint, spiritual intelligence is intrinsically linked to the constant action of the Holy Spirit. According to the Seventh-day Adventist Church Manual, the Holy Spirit is a person that “draws and convicts human beings; and those who respond He renews and transforms into the image of God.” He plays a pivotal role in spiritual growth, just as He did for Jesus. The evidence of a life governed by spiritual intelligence is reflected in the “fruit of the spirit,” which enables relationships based on love for God and neighbor.
Conclusion
While it is essential to master artificial intelligence professionally, the development of our spiritual intelligence through the Holy Spirit proves to be even more crucial in these changing times. Ellen White, in Selected Messages Book 3, states, “The sanctification of the soul by the operation of the Holy Spirit is the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity. It is the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ revealed in character and the grace of Christ brought into active exercise in good works. Thus, the character is transformed more and more perfectly after the image of Christ in righteousness and true holiness. There are broad requirements in divine truth stretching out into one line after another of good works. The truths of the gospel are not unconnected; uniting they form one string of heavenly jewels, as in the personal work of Christ, and like threads of gold they run through the whole of Christian work and experience.”
Author
Socrates Quispe-Condori
PhD, is the Associate Director of Education at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Church Headquarters. He is an experienced educator who has served in various administrative and leadership roles in Adventist higher education. Dr. Quispe-Condori earned a Master’s and PhD degrees from Campinas State University (São Paulo, Brazil). He also completed a post-doctorate at the University of Alberta (Canada) and obtained diplomas in Theology and Adventist Studies from Brazil Adventist University (São Paulo, Brazil), and Higher Education Management and Leadership from the Inter-American Organization for Higher Education (Montreal, Canada).