Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and a well-known advocate for innovative educational solutions, has made his latest book recommendation, highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the education sector.
Gates recently praised "Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education (And Why That’s a Good Thing)," written by Salman Khan, the founder and CEO of the educational nonprofit Khan Academy. This book, published last week, delves into how AI can significantly enhance educational outcomes globally.
Gates shared his endorsement on the social media platform X, emphasizing the book's compelling vision for leveraging AI to expand educational opportunities. "If you’re passionate about education, you need to read this book," Gates wrote. "Sal offers a compelling vision for harnessing AI to expand opportunity for all."
In "Brave New Words," Khan explores the potential for AI-powered systems, such as the ChatGPT-driven Khanmigo, to revolutionize education. These systems can support overworked teachers and customize lessons to meet individual students' needs. Currently, Khanmigo is being tested with more than 65,000 students. While it remains in an experimental phase and occasionally makes errors, particularly in subjects like math, its potential to enhance learning experiences is significant.
Gates has previously discussed the potential of AI to close the education gap, particularly for low-income students in developing countries. On his "Unconfuse Me" podcast featuring Khan, Gates expressed his belief that AI could act like an exceptional high school teacher, providing detailed feedback and encouraging students to improve their work. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which Gates co-chairs, partially funds Khan Academy, contributing a $1.5 million grant in 2010.
Despite the enthusiasm for AI in education, experts advise parents to remain cautious. Tovah Klein, a child psychologist at Barnard College, noted that while AI tools can be beneficial, they still require oversight to ensure accuracy and reliability. Parents are encouraged to use AI alongside their children to teach them real-time fact-checking skills.
Looking ahead, Gates remains optimistic about the role of AI in education. He envisions significant advancements over the next decade that could raise the overall level of achievement and reduce disparities for lower-income and minority students. "If we think about the next 10 years, these new tools can both close the gap and raise the overall level of achievement," Gates said on his podcast.
Bill Gates’ endorsement of Sal Khan's book underscores the potential for AI to revolutionise education. As technology continues to advance, the integration of AI in educational systems could offer unprecedented opportunities for personalised learning and global educational equity. Gates' recommendation is a call to educators, policymakers, and parents to explore the possibilities AI brings to the future of learning.