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JOHOR BAHARU, Dec 22: What can Artificial Intelligence (AI) do up uplift education in Malaysia, especially in the teaching of English?
Plenty, says Keith Thong, Deputy President of the Malaysian Association for Education (MAE).
Speaking on the integration of AI teaching and learning resources in school libraries at the recent annual convention of Pertubuhan Guru Perpustakaan dan Media Malaysia here, he said opportunities abound for those currently involved in the education sector as “they are at a pivotal moment in education where the integration of technology and creativity can transform he way we engage with information.”
“Our goal is to empower educators and students alike to embrace these changes and harness their potential for a brighter future,” Thong said as he cited a case study of a teacher librarian using apps from Pickatale UK to help students create books in multiple languages using AI.
This allowed them to choose their own storylines, select voice talent, adjust the level of difficulty, and set the preferred setting of the story, explained Thong, who is also the Group Managing Director of University Book Stores Malaysia.
Thong also revealed the role of bots as teacher companions to help students learn English via the English Central’s YouTube videos.
The event, which had gathered leading professionals in the field of library and media education, also discussed the importance of innovative strategies and technological advancements in enhancing educational resources and fostering a culture of lifelong learning in the school libraries.
Thong also shared insights that with the help of AI, the cost of learning programme or tests can be reduced considerably.
For instance, he said the four skills Edusynch CEFR English Levelled Test approved by the Ministry of Education (MOE Malaysia) used AI to substitute examiners.
By using AI to assess two skills, the examination cost can be reduced to only 10 per cent of what an exam used to cost, Thong disclosed.
“If an educational institution uses AI to assess all four skills, the exam cost can even be reduced to only five per cent,” he added.
PGPMM’s AGM was officiated by Haji Azman Adnan, Director General of the Malaysia, which also featured various workshops and panel discussions aimed at equipping educators with the latest tools and methodologies.
The event was described as having excellent takeaways for teachers as PGPMM continues to be a beacon for educational excellence, committed to advancing the standards of library and media services across Malaysia.
Additional information on the programmes cited by Thong can be obtained from David Choo at 012-6640833 or email David@ubsm.com.my
WE