Thou Shalt Be True to Thyself
Embracing Our Humanity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
By JINSIL V. KIM, MBA, M.Div.
As we usher in the era of artificial intelligence (A.I.), the imperative for a transformative approach to education becomes undeniable. The traditional school system, once the primary conduit for knowledge dissemination, now risks obsolescence. If we cling to outdated methods that prioritize rote memorization, we jeopardize our students’ global competitiveness. Instead, we must cultivate a deeper, more nuanced educational paradigm.
Visionaries like Elon Musk predict that rote learning will soon be rendered obsolete by technological advancements. In this rapidly evolving landscape, we must transcend technology itself to prepare our students for the future. But how do we chart this course? The answer lies in fostering the uniquely human qualities that no A.I. can replicate.
Creativity: The New Frontier
Human creativity, augmented by A.I., will become an invaluable asset. Jensen Huang, the founder of Nvidia, highlighted this during an international conference, stating that technology will democratize innovation. Soon, barriers like coding knowledge will no longer hinder those with groundbreaking ideas. This democratization will permeate all industries. Imagine a world where composing a symphony or producing a film can be achieved through intuitive technological interfaces. Our education system must prioritize nurturing creativity, empowering students to think beyond conventional boundaries and harness their imaginative
potential.
Critical Thinking: Navigating the Information Age
In the age of A.I., critical thinking skills will be paramount. Distinguishing between information and truth requires analytical rigor. If our students uncritically accept information presented by A.I., we risk creating a society vulnerable to manipulation. Instead, they must learn to scrutinize and question, understanding the motivations behind the data and recognizing biases. By cultivating discernment, we equip students to navigate a complex world, grounded in truth and guided by their moral compass.
Spiritual Intelligence: Beyond Logic
Spiritual intelligence, transcending the bounds of logic, will also be essential. Love, faith, and hope—core elements of the human experience—cannot be fully explained by reason. These concepts, rooted in trust and often enveloped in mystery, shape our history and identity. Unlike A.I., which operates within the confines of logic, humans are capable of profound, illogical connections and beliefs. Rather than sidelining spirituality in education, we should embrace it, fostering an understanding of what it means to be truly human.
Ultimately, A.I. can never replicate the essence of humanity. Imagine a World Cup played by A.I.—a spectacle devoid of the human drama, errors, and triumphs that make it compelling. The beauty of the game lies in its imperfections and the emotional journey of overcoming adversity. Similarly, the unique qualities that define us—creativity, critical thinking, and spirituality must be the focus of our educational efforts.
As we stand at the cusp of a technological revolution, it is our distinctly human attributes that will shine brightest. By reimagining education to emphasize these irreplaceable qualities, we ensure that our students not only survive but thrive in the age of A.I
