The Future of Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Summary
- The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on education and the role of teachers is changing dramatically.
- Yu Minhong emphasizes the necessity for teachers to evolve from knowledge transmitters to facilitators of emotional and intellectual growth.
- The potential risks of AI, including job displacement and societal polarization, require careful consideration and proactive strategies.
On January 24, 2026, at the Chongli Forum, New Oriental’s founder Yu Minhong addressed the transformative effects of the Internet and artificial intelligence on society. While acknowledging the advantages brought by these technologies, he discussed the inherent challenges and questions that accompany their rapid evolution.
The Dual Nature of AI
Yu Minhong poses critical questions regarding the implications of AI for humanity. Will it lead to widespread unemployment? Will individuals experience a loss of achievement and fulfillment as machines take over tasks once held by humans? He cautions that the benefits of AI depend largely on its alignment with human values. If not managed responsibly, AI could exacerbate social divides and create a society where wealth and resources are disproportionately concentrated.
Despite these concerns, Yu also highlights a range of benefits AI brings to various fields. In education, for example, AI can facilitate language learning and enhance classroom dynamics by alleviating pressure on teachers and students alike. This dynamic fosters student engagement, allowing for a more proactive learning environment.
The Evolution of Educational Roles
Yu reflects on the evolution from traditional "one mouth, one blackboard" teaching to the current "AI + education" model. This shift has already begun to transform New Oriental internally, prompting significant changes in their structure and approach. For instance, the rise of online learning has led to the departure of many renowned teachers, as digital platforms can amplify teaching capabilities.
However, with the advancement of AI, the necessity of traditional teaching jobs may be threatened. This development compels educators to rethink their roles fundamentally. Yu contends that technology will not disrupt the core essence of education; instead, it will necessitate new skills among teachers who must support emotional and social growth alongside academic excellence.
Reevaluation of Teacher Effectiveness
In Yu Minhong’s perspective, the role of teachers must pivot towards nurturing skills that AI cannot replicate, such as emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and interpersonal relationships. He argues that a significant portion of China’s primary and secondary educators falls short of these evolving standards. Many teachers still prioritize knowledge transfer over guiding students in developing essential life skills.
As educational paradigms shift, parents’ roles also need to adapt. There is a growing expectation for parents to engage with their children in problem-solving using AI, rather than deferring to teachers as the sole source of knowledge. This transition promotes greater cognitive development in children, as they learn to seek answers actively and take charge of their educational journeys.
A Call to Action for Teachers
Yu encourages teachers to embrace this new understanding of education. They must not only impart knowledge but also engage in the learning process alongside their students. This collaborative approach can lead to deeper understanding and a more enriching educational experience for all involved.
As the landscape of education evolves due to advancing AI technologies, the future will demand that teachers cultivate curiosity, resilience, and a spirit of cooperation among their students. These attributes will prepare future generations to navigate a world where AI is increasingly prevalent.
Conclusion
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence offers both remarkable opportunities and formidable challenges. As Yu Minhong illustrates, the imperative lies not only in how AI is developed but also in how humans navigate these changes. The future of education will depend on adapting teaching methodologies to cultivate the emotional and intellectual capacities of students, ensuring they thrive even as the technological landscape evolves.
This ongoing evolution in education emphasizes that while AI can perform many tasks, the human touch—empathy, connection, and emotional intelligence—remains irreplaceable. The success of future generations may well rest on how effectively they can learn, adapt, and harness these transformative technologies.
