TEACHING & LEARNING
COPENHAGEN BUSINESS SCHOOL
We had a conversation with Assistant Professor Sine Zambach from the Department of Digitalization who shared valuable takeaways and reflections from writing her recent book “AI i Gymnasiet” (English Translation: AI in high school).
Drawing from practical examples collected from teachers across various disciplines in high schools, Sine narrows the gap between equity and inspires fellow educators with innovative ways to seamlessly integrate AI within their classrooms. This book is an emerging resource for educators, providing both a theoretical foundation and a practical blueprint to harness AI’s potential responsibly in Danish high schools.
Background
During a visit to a high school in Northern Zealand, Sine observed something interesting: students were using AI much more than teachers. This observation led her to think deeply about how AI is changing the way students learn and the concerns teachers have about using AI in education. High school students were turning to AI for help with their schoolwork, from writing to solving complex problems.
In the first video, you can listen to Sine sharing her observations which subsequently led to writing her book:
Can AI be more like a tutor?
Drawing from her findings, Sine emphasizes the importance of “personal tutors,” akin to a chess student learning alongside a chess computer. This analogy underlines her vision for AI as a tool that doesn’t merely provide answers but fosters a deeper understanding and growth in learners.
Sine highlights AI’s dual role as both a facilitator of advanced learning and a potential pitfall in academic integrity. She advocates for a balanced approach to AI, suggesting it be used not just as a means to an end but as a platform for developing critical thinking and analytical skills among students.
The Road Ahead: AI, Equity, and Education
Sine’s book and our discussion highlight an important point: AI is increasingly integrated into education, and we must navigate its implementation thoughtfully. Educators are looking for guidance on how to include AI in their teaching without losing the essence of learning. Sine’s work is a step towards answering these questions.
On the other hand, it serves as a call to action for educators, students, and policymakers to engage in ongoing dialogue about the ethical use of AI. Sine highlights the potential for AI to serve as a great equalizer in education, offering personalized learning experiences that could bridge the gap between diverse student backgrounds. The lessons from her book “AI i Gymnasiet” encourage us to approach AI with a critical, thoughtful perspective, recognizing its potential to transform education for the better, if we’re willing to embrace the change thoughtfully and inclusively.
Resources:
Zambach, S. (2024). AI i gymnasiet. Praxis. ISBN 9788729013600. https://aiigymnasiet.praxis.dk/
