By Francisco Peyret
Teacher’s Day, when the work of educators in the country is recognized, is a very important celebration in Mexico. This May 15, we had the opportunity to reflect on teachers’ fundamental role in Mexico’s society in the 21st century. Mexico is a country where public education has undergone a process of deterioration and deprivation at the same time. In this century we are still immersed in very traditional education programs. This is not a country that focuses on the development of technology or scientific research.
Unlike other countries, Mexico has focused on promoting an industrial policy that seeks to attract foreign investment in the manufacturing sector, in addition to training technicians and workers. China and South Korea are examples of how, since the change in the educational model, they have developed technicians and professionals currently immersed in the development of their own technology. These economies began their processes of education and productive reconversion in the 1980s.
Mexican teachers have the task of training the new generations of citizens of the country, imparting knowledge, values, and life skills. But currently they face new challenges with the arrival of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology in general. AI simulates human intelligence via a machine, allowing it to perform tasks that previously only humans could do. This technology is going to revolutionize many aspects of modern life, including education.
In this new context, the role of the teacher has to be transformed. It is no longer just a question of being a transmitter of knowledge, but of being a guide and facilitator in students’ learning process. Teachers have a responsibility to help students develop skills that allow them to adapt to a constantly changing and evolving world. Technology offers new tools and resources that can be of great help in the educational process, such as mobile applications, online platforms, educational games, and augmented reality. Teachers must learn to use these tools to improve the quality of teaching and make it more attractive and accessible to students.
However, with the advent of AI, significant challenges face teachers. One is the need for constant training and updating in order to be up to date with regard to new technologies and their impact on the educational process. Additionally, teachers must adapt to the new learning styles of students, who may be more accustomed to technology and less willing to learn in traditional ways. Another important challenge is the ethical and responsible use of technology. Teachers must be able to teach students to use technology responsibly and consciously, avoiding the risks associated with the excessive use of electronic devices and social networks.
The misuse of AI in education could have serious consequences. One of the main risks is technology being used as a complete substitute for the role of the teacher. Although AI can be useful to complement learning, it cannot completely replace the human role in education. If technology is used instead of teachers, it could limit students’ ability to develop social and emotional skills, such as empathy and human interaction.
Furthermore, AI in education can lead to educational segregation and discrimination. If technology is used to classify students into groups based on performance or interest, it can perpetuate inequality and exclusion. Likewise, if technology is used to make decisions about the education of students, such as course selection or grade assignment, it could introduce bias and discrimination into the process.
Another major risk is the lack of privacy and security of student data. If AI technology is used to collect and analyze data about students, it could put their privacy and security at risk. The data could be used for malicious purposes, such as discrimination or manipulation.
If education in Mexico does not adapt to the use of new technologies and AI, the educational and development gap with countries that have their own technology will grow larger. The change of technology is an opportunity, but if it is not taken advantage of, it could become a real misfortune.
