AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is a simulation of human intelligence processed by machines. This means that machines, created and controlled by humans, can process, replicate, and respond to the human world. In essence, AI is a manifestation of human thought in a mechanized form.

We’ve all been interacting with some form of AI for decades.  AI has helped shape what we know as algorithms and “Big Data”, as machines can process data faster than humans. In this digital age, data sets one organization apart from another. However, AI and its uses are now mainstream, bringing us to the topic today. Due to deep learning, blockchain, and other technological advancements, AI technology has grown by leaps and bounds. These advancements have enabled machines to learn from data and make intelligent decisions.

There’s nothing to fear about AI. AI is a tool created by humans; like all tools, we need to learn how to use them.

The role of AI in online learning is pivotal, particularly in creating a more inclusive learning environment. Educators have long recognized the value of  personalized education for their learners. AI, by enabling the implementation of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL), can eliminate learning barriers for all students. UDL is a framework and set of principles for curriculum development that aims to provide all students with equal opportunities to learn. The UDL framework centers around anticipating what works best for each student, and then intentionally integrates those guideposts into the course. AI models can facilitate the creation of personalized learning paths and tailored curriculums, thereby fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

We’ve already seen this type of customized artificial intelligence in action when we stream on our favorite streaming apps, like Netflix. The streaming platform customizes your preferences based on the types of shows and movies you watch and the searches you make. Why not do this for education?

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 1.3 billion people worldwide experience disabilities that can affect their mobility, hearing, vision, and cognition. Many of these disabilities impact their ability to participate in the world—both online and offline. AI can change that, however, by helping us all create a level playing field. 

The potential of AI to assist in ensuring accessibility is significant. The U.S. Department of Justice issued a final rule to ensure the accessibility of web content and mobile apps for people with disabilities. These rules provide clear guidelines and technical requirements for state, local, and public entities to adhere to, using the WCAG 2.1 AA as the technical standard. Many organizations are still determining how to meet these requirements. AI could be a valuable tool in this regard.  

Creating accessible online course content, and helping others do the same, is part of CourseArc’s core mission. We are exploring ways to utilize AI to help everyone achieve accessible content. 

AI, like any new technology, has its constraints. It’s trained through data model sets to make accurate predictions or decisions, primarily based on available data. This means it can hold bias, just like humans. For example, our CEO, Katie Egan, asked AI to produce an image of a CEO for her. In every round, AI only made images of white males. While no universal standards are yet in place for AI output and design, many institutions are working toward reducing or eliminating bias against individuals, communities, and groups. 

There are accuracy concerns regarding AI and its outputs. AI can produce instantaneous results that sound convincing, but they are not always factual and correct. Intellectual property and copyright issues have also spurred major debate about AI and its uses. Many educators cite plagiarism as a major reason not to adopt AI. 

The increasing use of AI also raises concerns about individual privacy and data collection, such as informed consent, transparency, data collection, data access, data dissemination, data spillovers and unwarranted surveillance.

It’s crucial to remember that AI is a tool created by humans. Therefore, human oversight and responsibility is paramount. The task of checking for accuracy, plagiarism, privacy, and bias is not a burden, but an empowering part of the learning experience for both educator and learner. This oversight ensures that AI is used ethically and responsibly, enhancing the learning process.

An example of results from a search from an AI Image generator using the search terms, “CEO giving a presentation.”

CourseArc is committed to staying at the forefront of educational technology by actively researching and incorporating the latest advancements in AI. While we recognize the excitement of AI, we are equally aware of the associated challenges and concerns. Therefore, we are taking a cautious and deliberate approach to integrating AI into our platform, ensuring that our clients can trust in the responsible use of this powerful technology. 

Our mission is to help our clients save time and improve workflows, ensuring they receive the most practical and beneficial applications of AI while delivering high-quality and engaging course content.  For example, AI can tailor educational experiences to individual students, handle administrative duties, and offer immediate feedback, thereby improving the learning process. We are committed to delivering high-quality and engaging course content while using AI responsibly.

Learn more about our approach to AI, join us in the conversation, and stay tuned for what’s to come for CourseArc and AI. 

1. DataLoop Expands Range of Services to Include Data Annotation for Various Industries and Sectors | Jul 21, 2021 – ReleaseWire. http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/dataloop-expands-range-of-services-to-include-data-annotation-for-various-industries-and-sectors-1343298.htm
2. Hardison, H., & Blad, E. (2023, September 26). Educators share advice on supporting students with learning differences. *Education Week*. https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/educators-share-advice-on-supporting-students-with-learning-differences/2023/09
3. Xuan, Q., & Wu, J. (2020). A Study on Artificial Intelligence for Health Care System. Biometrics and Bioinformatics. http://ciitresearch.org/dl/index.php/bb/article/view/BB042020003.