The Age of AI has emerged recently, but its wide influence has become a broader concern for many industries where human intervention and contribution played a major part. Academics and the education sector are the biggest examples of that, as AI is largely implemented in many countries. Modern students are more likely to write assignments with the help of ChatGPT rather than a professor. Therefore, the biggest question still remains whether college professors are relevant or not. Can AI replace them?
There is a recent statement by Bill Gates that reads, "Within 10 years, AI will replace many doctors and teachers—humans won’t be needed ‘for most things.’" It is perhaps terrifying that AI can replace human efforts in many fields, but can it replace the way a person teaches students? Geoffrey Hinton, an expert in deep learning, revealed that fact that AI tutors are better than human tutors in many aspects.
It is true that AI is transforming many sectors rapidly, and the education sector is also one of its main domains. While AI is influencing the modern education systems and changing the landscape dramatically, the universities might not vanish, and the need for professors still remains. Here are some potential reasons why universities must speak out, along with the professors.
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The Need for a College Campus for Coming of Age
The real value of education does not lie in learning content only, but it also involves a fair amount of personal growth. For many of the students, the college campus offers their first taste of freedom in life. It is also the initiation of adulthood, and that transition requires a safe space like college where students can freely grow with others. Students require an intellectually-rich environment that colleges and universities can provide with human interaction, but not an AI-based structure. AI might not be helping in growing bonds, friendship, or a network, which can become beneficial even in the latest stages of professional life. AI can help to provide personalized learning programs, but it cannot create the environment artificially.
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A University Degree is Important for Professional Life
Even if you have enough knowledge in a particular field, a college degree is still required. The degree works like a signal that tells employers that the candidate has done what is required for the job. More than the degree, it is the consistency that matters when a student shows up every day, completes assignments within the deadline, sits for an exam, etc. Through this process, the student will learn the value of consistently showing up, rather than just gaining expertise. A rigorous path often leads to more success, and an AI cannot replace that. A University Degree is the most trusted document.
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An Institution with Expert Educators is Required
Going to college can be compared to going to a gym, where an institution with mentors and tools is ready for you. College provides a similar ground with the professors who offer deadlines and a complete structure to complete the curriculum. They are just like personal trainers who can guide you and motivate you on your path while teaching the lesson of self-discipline. This way, students can stay more accountable for their actions.
Does That Mean Professors will be Replaced Soon?
Although AI cannot replace all the professors, there can be some major changes in the coming days as the implementation of AI in education is rapidly increasing everywhere. However, it cannot provide the cognitive, emotional, and social functions that a university offers. Therefore, it is safe to say that colleges and professors are still relevant.
