Why AI Might Be the Teacher of the Future (But Schools Aren’t Going Anywhere)
When Luis von Ahn, the CEO of Duolingo, claimed in a recent interview that “AI is a better teacher than humans,” it sparked a wave of debate. After all, this is the man behind one of the world’s most popular language-learning apps, a platform that has helped millions master new languages through bite-sized, gamified lessons powered by algorithms. But von Ahn’s bold statement isn’t a dismissal of traditional education. Instead, it’s a nuanced take on how artificial intelligence could reshape learning—while schools continue to serve a purpose far beyond academics.
Let’s unpack his argument.
The Case for AI as a Superior Teacher
Von Ahn’s confidence in AI stems from its ability to do what human teachers often struggle with: personalization at scale. Imagine a classroom where every student receives tailored instruction based on their strengths, weaknesses, and pace. A human teacher with 30 students can’t realistically adjust lessons for each individual. AI, however, thrives in this space. Platforms like Duolingo analyze user data in real time, adapting exercises to focus on areas where learners need practice. If you consistently mix up French verb conjugations, the app notices and drills you on that weakness until it sticks.
Then there’s the issue of feedback. Humans are prone to fatigue, bias, or inconsistency when grading assignments or explaining concepts. AI doesn’t get tired, frustrated, or impatient. It provides instant, objective corrections—something von Ahn argues is critical for skill-building. “A student practicing Spanish at 2 a.m. can’t text their teacher for help,” he quipped in the interview. “But with AI, they can get an explanation immediately.”
Finally, AI democratizes access. A child in a remote village with limited educational resources can learn calculus or coding through AI tutors like Khan Academy’s Khanmigo or Quizlet’s Q-Chat. These tools don’t replace teachers but act as round-the-clock mentors, filling gaps in underfunded school systems.
Why Schools Will Survive the AI Revolution
Despite AI’s advantages, von Ahn doesn’t see classrooms disappearing. His reasoning? “You still need childcare.” It’s a blunt but practical point. Schools aren’t just centers of learning; they’re social hubs, safe spaces, and daycare solutions for working parents. A third-grader can’t stay home alone with an iPad and an AI tutor. Society relies on schools to keep kids supervised, engaged, and socially integrated.
But the role of schools might evolve. As AI handles repetitive tasks like grammar drills or math problem sets, human teachers could focus on higher-value skills: critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Picture a future where AI handles the “what” of learning (memorizing multiplication tables) while teachers tackle the “why” and “how” (applying math to real-world scenarios). This hybrid model is already emerging. Tools like ChatGPT are being used to generate essay prompts or simplify complex texts, freeing up teachers to lead discussions or mentor students one-on-one.
There’s also the irreplaceable human element. A great teacher doesn’t just impart knowledge—they inspire curiosity, build confidence, and foster empathy. An AI might explain Shakespeare’s sonnets flawlessly, but it can’t share a personal story about overcoming writer’s block or console a student struggling with anxiety. As Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond, president of the Learning Policy Institute, notes, “Education is inherently relational. Kids learn best when they feel seen and valued.”
The Elephant in the Room: Equity and Ethics
Not everyone is convinced. Critics argue that leaning too heavily on AI risks widening educational divides. Wealthier districts might pair advanced AI tools with skilled teachers, while under-resourced schools rely on cheap, glitchy software. There’s also concern about data privacy. Platforms collecting student information to train algorithms could inadvertently expose sensitive details.
Moreover, AI isn’t foolproof. Language models still hallucinate facts, and adaptive algorithms can reinforce biases if trained on flawed data. A 2023 study by the OECD found that students using AI tutors without human oversight often developed “surface-level” understanding—they could solve equations but struggled to apply concepts creatively.
The Path Forward
Von Ahn’s vision isn’t about replacing teachers with robots. It’s about leveraging AI to enhance what humans do best. Imagine a world where:
– Overworked teachers delegate grading to AI, reclaiming time for lesson planning and student interaction.
– Students in rural areas access Ivy League-quality instruction via AI tutors, bridging geographic gaps.
– Classrooms become labs for collaboration and innovation, with teachers guiding projects that AI can’t replicate.
This future requires careful planning. Schools need funding to integrate AI responsibly, teachers deserve training to work alongside new tools, and policymakers must prioritize equity in tech adoption.
As von Ahn put it, “AI won’t make schools obsolete—it’ll make them better.” The goal isn’t to pit humans against machines but to create an education system where both play to their strengths. After all, the best classrooms of tomorrow might be the ones where kids learn from algorithms during the day… and still raise their hands to ask a human teacher for help.
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