Taming the “necessary devil”: humanization of artificial intelligence tools and technologies for teaching and learning

Abstract

Humanization of artificial intelligence or AI has begun to gain research attention in several fields. However, little knowledge exists about the humanization of AI tools and technologies for the education field. This study, underpinned by the humanizing pedagogy and community of inquiry (CoI) theories, explores authors’ reflections and literature evidence on the dangers of AI in education, possible strategies for the humanization of AI in teaching and learning processes, and the challenges thereof. This reflective study utilized a qualitative approach. The purposive sampling technique was used in selecting four academics from the faculty of education in a South African public university. Data from the study were analyzed via critical self-examination and the integration of contextual, personal, and literature insights. Findings indicate the dangers of AI to the educational process, the procedures by which educational AI technologies can be humanized, and the challenges hampering the humanization of AI for education purposes. The study implies the need for AI-driven professional development for educators as well as the infusion of culture, values and academia in the design of AI tools and technologies. The study concludes that AI adoption should be embraced by all education stakeholders; however, advocacy for its ethical, responsible, and humane use be continued and prioritized.