Rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence and the shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the need for practical strategies to ensure education remains human-centered in the face of new digital tools, according to a new report called “Keep it Human: Learning design in the digital world” by the Melbourne Graduate School of Education.
The report emphasizes the importance of placing students at the center of technological advances and calls on policymakers and schools to apply practical strategies to prevent the haphazard adoption of digital tools. While new technologies offer valuable advancements, the report stresses that they will never replace the crucial role of teachers.
Associate Professor Mark Selkrig, Director of Digital Engagement at the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, underlines the significance of teachers in the digital age. He states that teachers have a more important role than ever before, as they design real-world learning environments that facilitate learner agency and develop students’ ability to navigate this unknown terrain.
The report advocates for human-centered learning in digital education, which involves designing learning experiences based on individual student needs and interests. Teachers become architects of these experiences, tailoring lesson plans accordingly. By effectively utilizing AI and digital tools, educators can focus on the creative, critical, and connecting aspects of teaching, rather than administrative or technical tasks.
To effectively respond to the challenges presented by digital and online learning, the report outlines strategies for policymakers and schools. These include using Learning Management Systems for personalized revision, incorporating gamification to motivate and engage students, and leveraging AI tools for enhanced feedback and assessment processes.
Associate Professor Selkrig emphasizes the importance of connecting pedagogical theories and frameworks with the practice of teaching in the online environment. He also emphasizes the need to support and empower teachers in championing human-centered digital learning.
The report concludes that when implemented successfully, human-centered digital learning allows students to become partners in their own education, developing digital literacy, ethical awareness, and advanced digital skills.
It is worth noting that the report incorporates contributions from various academics specializing in technology-enhanced and online learning, digital inclusion, equitable access to education, and pedagogical approaches to digital instruction.