Future of education: Bridging perceptions and reality

In our rapidly advancing world of educational technology and artificial intelligence, our journey toward the future of education may seem as captivating as it is intimidating. A recent thought-provoking LinkedIn post by a university dean painted a fascinating picture of this future, prompting me to re-evaluate our shared journey.
The dean sketched a scenario where classrooms have no walls, AI-powered digital tutors adapt to our learning styles, and global learning communities connect across continents. This vision also implied a collaborative relationship with corporations, envisioning a future where the boundaries between education and industry become increasingly blurred.
While this vision is captivating, it is crucial to acknowledge our inherent human bias — we often unconsciously shape our perspectives based on our own experiences and overlook the reality that not everyone shares the same skills, opportunities or background.
One significant concern in this brave new world is a few large corporations’ potential domination of education. If such companies control most educational resources, we risk limiting diversity in learning materials and methods. In the worst-case scenario, these companies prioritize their profits over the quality and fairness of education.
The envisioned collaboration with corporations is beneficial. Companies can offer valuable industry insights and real-world applications of academic knowledge. However, a balanced approach is necessary. We need to ensure that this corporate influence does not overshadow the primary goals of education, such as fostering critical thinking, creativity and holistic personal development.
Digital literacy is another critical aspect. It is not enough to merely provide access to technology; we need to ensure our learners can use these tools effectively. Online learning platforms, while beneficial, gather vast amounts of data on students, raising critical concerns about privacy and security.
Moreover, while technology opens new avenues for learning, it cannot replace the value of face-to-face interactions and the authentic real-life environment, which are vital components of education. Not everyone prefers virtual learning or can effectively learn in this way. Recognizing and accommodating diverse learning styles is essential to create an inclusive and effective educational system.

Embracing diversity of thought and perspectives can shape a future that neither intimidates nor overpromises but offers a realistic, fair and enriching educational experience for all.

All these challenges necessitate a holistic approach. The transformative potential of edtech and AI is undeniable. Still, a balanced vision must acknowledge the digital divide, stress digital literacy, ensure transparency in data usage and engage all stakeholders — educators, parents and students.
Embracing diversity of thought and perspectives can shape a future that neither intimidates nor overpromises but offers a realistic, fair and enriching educational experience for all. By understanding these diverse viewpoints, we can foster an open dialogue among teachers, students, parents, policymakers and technology creators, leading to a shared understanding and collaborative problem-solving approach.
The aim should be to develop a balanced vision for the future of education — one that neither overly idealizes nor demonizes technology. In this vision, technology is a tool that serves pedagogical goals, not an end in itself.
Through this balance, we can navigate the exciting yet challenging landscape of the future of education with confidence and optimism, remembering that our joint vision should serve everyone, not just a few.
Moreover, in envisioning the future of education, we must prioritize inclusion. Technology has the potential to bridge gaps and provide access to quality education for learners who may face barriers due to geographical, socioeconomic or physical limitations.

However, we must ensure that technological advancements do not unintentionally contribute to widening the existing digital gap. It is crucial to address issues of accessibility and provide support for learners with diverse needs, including those with disabilities or learning difficulties.
By embracing an inclusive approach, we can create an educational landscape that values and respects all learners’ unique abilities and perspectives. This involves designing edtech solutions that are adaptable, customisable and considerate of different learning styles and individual needs. Collaboration with small businesses can contribute to this inclusive vision by bringing innovative ideas and tailored solutions that cater to diverse learning populations.
In summary, as we navigate the future of education, it is vital to bridge perceptions and reality, acknowledging the potential benefits and challenges of edtech and AI. Collaboration with stakeholders, including small businesses, can bring diversity, innovation and alternative perspectives to the edtech landscape. However, we must find a middle ground, ensuring that corporate influence is within the primary goals of education. Additionally, recognizing diverse learning styles and prioritising inclusion are essential aspects of shaping a future that empowers all learners and prepares them for success in the digital age.

• Ahoud Alshaikh, Ph.D., MSc, MA, Harvard CSML, is an education expert specializing in edtech, educational assessment, public-private partnerships, and educational corporate governance.