From Virtual TAs to Inclusive Learning: AI's Impact on Education

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has been growing rapidly, with AI teaching assistants being introduced to support teachers and enhance student learning experiences. One notable example is Jill Watson, an AI-powered teaching assistant developed at Georgia Institute of Technology, which answers students' questions alongside human TAs. AI can help reduce the workload for educators by handling routine tasks such as reading books out loud or answering frequently asked questions about course syllabi. Additionally, AI has been shown to improve learning outcomes and motivation in students with special educational needs, including those on the autism spectrum. However, concerns have been raised about potential biases in AI models and their impact on children's social development. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for researchers and educators to address these challenges while harnessing the benefits of AI in education.