Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming education, offering new opportunities for teaching and learning while introducing significant challenges. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres recently emphasised the need to “ensure that Artificial Intelligence supports students and teachers through access to information and cutting-edge curricula and other learning tools” while guaranteeing “that all users have the tools and knowledge required to use this technology smartly safely and ethically.” Recognising this need for guidance, UNESCO published two Competency Frameworks last year to help educators and students navigate the complexities of integrating this new technology into the classroom. These guidelines are the latest step in finding a global consensus on the responsible use of AI in education.
To explore AI’s potential and challenges, we compared the advantages and risks outlined in UNESCO’s frameworks with answers from one of the widely known AI platforms, ChatGPT. When asked about its possible role in education, ChatGPT highlighted numerous benefits that align with UNESCO’s guidelines and several pitfalls that require attention.
On the benefits side, AI offers transformative potential by personalising learning, increasing efficiency, and improving accessibility. Adaptive learning platforms tailor lessons to individual students’ needs, provide instant feedback, and create customised learning paths. AI supports educators by automating administrative tasks like grading and scheduling, freeing time for more meaningful student engagement. It also enhances global accessibility by breaking language barriers, providing assistive technologies for students with disabilities, and facilitating remote learning. Additionally, immersive tools such as virtual reality (VR) and gamified learning experiences engage students, while AI-powered tutoring systems ensure support is available anytime, anywhere.
However, AI also presents significant challenges that must be addressed. A major concern is the digital divide, as not all students have equal access to the technology required for AI tools, potentially widening educational inequalities. Overdependence on AI could erode critical thinking and creativity while diminishing essential human interaction in education. Furthermore, data privacy and security risks arise from the vast amounts of sensitive information collected, while biases in AI systems may perpetuate inequities. The high cost of AI tools could limit their adoption in underfunded schools, and there is concern about the displacement or diminishing roles of educators. Notably absent from ChatGPT’s response—but highlighted in UNESCO’s Teacher’s Framework—is the environmental cost of AI tools, which deserves greater attention in discussions of sustainability.
Mitigation Strategies offered by ChatGPT
Of note, ChatGPT offered an additional paragraph on mitigating strategies to maximize the benefits of AI while minimizing its risks. It outline the need for stakeholders to prioritize ethical AI development, robust data security measures, and equitable access to technology. AI tools should be designed to complement, not replace, human educators, ensuring that the irreplaceable value of human interaction remains at the center of education. Comprehensive training for teachers and students on the responsible use of AI can help foster trust and understanding. Policymakers and developers must also address biases in AI systems, making them culturally adaptable and inclusive. By maintaining a balanced and thoughtful approach, AI can be a powerful ally in advancing education for all.
The AI Competency Framework for Teachers (AI CFT) outlines the knowledge, skills, and values educators need to use AI effectively in the classroom, while the AI Competency Framework for Students (AI CFS) focuses on building the ability to use AI tools independently, critically, and efficiently. Both frameworks emphasize that AI should augment, not replace, the vital roles and responsibilities of educators in the learning process.
As AI continues to shape more areas of daily life, these frameworks serve as valuable resources, helping educators embrace the opportunities AI offers while thoughtfully addressing its challenges. By keeping human interaction at the heart of education, AI can support the creation of more equitable and impactful learning environments.
Additional links:
- The International Day of Education (IDE)
- Artificial intelligence in education (UNESCO)
- What you need to know about UNESCO’s new AI competency frameworks for students and teachers (UNESCO)
- UNESCO dedicates the International Day of Education 2025 to Artificial Intelligence
- All our articles on the United Nations and Artificial Intelligence