The virtual explainer: a response to inequality?

The discussion about artificial intelligence in teaching reopens the debate about private school support and disparities in access to learning.

One day, in an initiative in which the ministers returned to their former educational establishments, I visited the Liceu Infanta D. Maria, in Coimbra, at the time one of the highest rated public secondary schools in the country.

In the end, when congratulating the Director on the excellent results, her response was surprising. He told me that the merit did not lie mainly with the School and its teachers. Almost all students came from middle-class families who, moreover, paid for tutoring in fundamental subjects. This revelation impressed me, and I later realized that this scenario – that of “shadow education” – has become the rule for those who can afford additional education. Unfortunately, the lack of concrete data prevents us from tracing the true geography of this private support. But there is no doubt that its absence is a factor of discrimination that worsens inequality in learning in Portugal.

I now remember this story regarding the recent controversy surrounding the announced artificial intelligence (AI) tutor for teaching. Little is known about the project and it is clear that it will be recommended to test it in a proof of concept, try it in a pilot project and evaluate it before extending it to the entire school community.

This is, of course, not about replacing teachers or their crucial role in teaching and supporting students. AI should only complement this function, especially for those who are helpless at home and without direct family support. Of course, nothing will be simple, knowing that inaccurate information is still among the biggest risks of advanced AI systems. Still, it’s worth trying this use of technology for a good purpose: helping those who cannot afford private explanations, offering them personalized support.

I remembered, in fact, when reading some of the immediate negative reactions against the AI ​​tutor, other very similar ones that I witnessed on different occasions against more disruptive modernization projects. I won’t forget what was said when the Citizen Card was announced: that “Big Brother” was coming, that we could even be cloned, that it was completely a false promise and an impossible project.

Perhaps it is better to remain calm and wait for the details of the virtual tutor (a more measured expression than that of a tutor) with some positive spirit, hoping that he will help the most disadvantaged to have additional education somewhat similar to their colleagues. I, at least, will do this with interest, attention and best wishes for success.