AI vs. Human Teachers: Why Schools Aren’t Going Anywhere, According to Duolingo’s CEO
In a recent interview, Luis von Ahn, co-founder and CEO of language-learning app Duolingo, made a provocative claim: Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a better teacher than humans in many ways. But before you imagine a dystopian future where robots replace classrooms, he quickly adds a caveat—schools aren’t disappearing anytime soon. Why? “Because you still need childcare,” he says.
The statement captures a paradox at the heart of modern education. While AI tools like chatbots, adaptive learning platforms, and personalized tutors are revolutionizing how we acquire knowledge, traditional schools fulfill roles far beyond academics. Let’s unpack von Ahn’s argument and explore why the rise of AI might not spell the end of brick-and-mortar classrooms.
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AI as the Ultimate Personalized Tutor
Von Ahn’s confidence in AI stems from its ability to do what even the most dedicated human teacher struggles with: hyper-personalization. Unlike a classroom of 30 students with varying skill levels, AI-powered platforms like Duolingo analyze individual performance in real time. They identify gaps in understanding, adjust difficulty levels on the fly, and deliver bite-sized lessons tailored to each learner’s pace.
“A human teacher can’t track whether every student correctly answered 10 grammar questions in a row or remember which vocabulary words they struggled with last week,” von Ahn explains. “But AI can.” This precision minimizes frustration (no one gets left behind) and boredom (advanced learners aren’t held back), creating a smoother, more efficient learning curve.
Moreover, AI never tires. It’s available 24/7, doesn’t have bad days, and offers instant feedback—something crucial for mastering skills like language or math. Studies show that immediate correction helps learners correct mistakes before they become ingrained.
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The Human Element: What Schools Do That AI Can’t
Despite AI’s advantages, von Ahn emphasizes that schools serve purposes beyond pure instruction. For starters, they’re a social ecosystem. Classrooms teach collaboration, empathy, and conflict resolution—skills honed through group projects, recess debates, and navigating friendships. “AI can’t replicate the experience of working through a disagreement with a peer or celebrating a team victory,” says Dr. Emily Torres, an educational psychologist.
Then there’s mentorship. Great teachers don’t just relay information; they inspire curiosity, recognize emotional struggles, and model critical thinking. A chatbot might explain quadratic equations flawlessly, but it can’t notice when a student’s declining performance signals personal distress or motivate them with a heartfelt pep talk.
And let’s not overlook the childcare factor. As von Ahn bluntly puts it, schools provide a safe, structured environment for kids while parents work. Even if AI could theoretically teach children everything at home, society isn’t ready—or willing—to overhaul the dual role schools play in education and childcare.
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The Hybrid Future of Education
The real transformation, von Ahn suggests, lies in merging AI’s strengths with human-led education. Imagine classrooms where teachers leverage AI tools to handle repetitive tasks—grading quizzes, drilling multiplication tables, or assigning practice exercises—freeing them to focus on creative instruction and emotional support.
This hybrid model is already emerging. Platforms like Khan Academy and, yes, Duolingo are used by teachers to supplement lessons. Students might practice Spanish grammar via an app at home, then apply those skills in a classroom role-playing activity. Meanwhile, AI analytics help teachers pinpoint which students need extra help, enabling targeted interventions.
Critics argue that over-reliance on tech could widen inequities. Not every student has reliable internet access or a quiet space to learn online. But von Ahn counters that well-designed AI tools can reduce disparities. Duolingo, for instance, is free and used widely in underserved regions where language classes are scarce. “AI can democratize access to high-quality education,” he says.
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Why Resistance to AI in Education Is Misguided
Fear of AI replacing teachers isn’t new, but history suggests technology augments rather than obliterates professions. Calculators didn’t erase math teachers; they changed how math was taught. Similarly, AI won’t make human educators obsolete—it will redefine their roles.
The key is adaptation. Teachers who embrace AI as a collaborator can enhance their impact. For example, AI-generated insights about student progress can inform more dynamic lesson plans. Meanwhile, educators can double down on fostering creativity, ethical reasoning, and cultural awareness—areas where humans still outperform machines.
As for students, growing up with AI tutors might better prepare them for a tech-driven world. “Learning to interact with AI is becoming as essential as learning to use a library,” says von Ahn.
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The Bottom Line
AI’s ascent in education isn’t about machines versus humans—it’s about reimagining how both can coexist. While AI excels at personalization and scalability, schools remain irreplaceable for nurturing social skills, providing mentorship, and serving as community hubs. And yes, keeping kids occupied while parents earn a living.
As von Ahn sums it up: “The future isn’t AI or schools. It’s AI and schools.” The challenge lies in designing systems that let each play to their strengths. After all, the goal isn’t to create the most advanced tech but to raise well-rounded, knowledgeable humans—and that’s a team effort.
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