AI is scary but it's here

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has profoundly influenced nearly all fields, including education. Educationists widely acknowledge that AI has transformed the world, necessitating its acceptance and strategic integration into various systems.

In this context, the Society of Pakistan English Language Teachers (SPELT) hosted its two-day 40th SPELT International Conference under the theme 'Transitions in ELT: Past, Present, and Future.'

Renowned English Language Teaching (ELT) professionals, scholars, and educational experts from Pakistan and around the world participated, contributing to the richness of the dialogue.

A notable panel discussion, titled 'From Traditional to Transformation: Impact of AI on Education,' explored how AI is reshaping the education landscape. The panelists described AI as a tool designed to enhance efficiency.

"It's a new world order. AI is a tool to supplement and assist [us]," remarked Nasir R Zaidi, president of the Pakistan Academic Consortium. He emphasised the need for government regulations on AI but stressed that educators must proactively develop their own standard operating procedures (SOPs) for both teachers and students.

Prof Dr Farid Panjwani, Dean of the Institute for Educational Development at Aga Khan University, highlighted the inseparable relationship between technology and society. He pointed out that Pakistan has 24 million out-of-school children and suggested that AI could play a crucial role in re-engaging these children with education. He cautioned that AI's impact depends on its effective and intelligent use.

Adding to the discussion, Salma Ahmed Alam noted the diverse capabilities of AI tools like ChatGPT, particularly in refining language skills. "AI opens up many opportunities to learn," she observed, urging educators and students to leverage its potential.

The question of AI's creativity sparked debate. Danish Faruqi, an educationist, stated: "we use AI to make our work easier. AI does not create anything new; it simplifies tasks."

Alan Mackenzie, founding director of Transform ELT, echoed this sentiment, asserting: "AI is not creative. It cannot create anything entirely original."

Dr Panjwani urged a balance between natural intelligence and AI reliance. "Machines have not yet been able to produce something truly innovative," he said.

The conference offered approximately 20 sessions on diverse topics, including 'Planning for Unpredictable Futures,' 'In Search of Better Learning Outcomes,' 'Artificial Intelligence-Powered Literature,' and 'Teaching AI and the Future of Learning.' These sessions delved into contemporary challenges and opportunities within ELT and education at large.

In a session titled 'Teaching, AI, and the Future of Learning,' Abbas Husain, Managing Director of the Teachers Development Center, emphasised the ubiquity of mobile phones and their addictive nature. He drew parallels between how machines mimic human thinking versus humans adapting to machine-like behaviours. "Teachers must use innovative techniques, like employing different colours on whiteboards, to enhance student engagement," he suggested.

Sharing insights from various authors, he stressed the importance of integrating AI thoughtfully into teaching methodologies.

Another compelling session, 'Professional Skill Development for Language Teaching in the 21st Century,' was conducted by Dr Zhou Fei from Thailand. He contrasted traditional classrooms, often constrained by limited resources, with modern ones enriched by technology.

"In traditional classrooms, students are often pushed to conform to rigid systems, leaving little room for creativity or play," he noted. In contrast, he explained that modern classrooms position teachers as directors guiding students toward achieving goals with the aid of technological tools.

Dr Fei encouraged English language teachers to leverage their expertise in writing to utilise AI more effectively, reinforcing the argument that AI, when employed intelligently, can significantly enhance educational outcomes.

The conference successfully addressed the evolving landscape of ELT, emphasising the critical role of educators in navigating transitions while harnessing AI as a transformative tool.