A Scenario for the Future of AI and Technology in Public Education

Abstract

Using narrative writing techniques, four authors use a “what if” approach to explore a future possible scenario, set in the year 2037, to reflect on looming changes in an increasingly technological human environment. The purpose of this imaginative exercise is not to pinpoint or predict future events, but to highlight large-scale forces that could push the future of learning in key directions. In this story, we follow a young student through a technology-me- diated experience of daily life. As they navigate their learning environment, we observe some of the challenges and opportunities that this student may face including personalized learning technologies, data tracking, and automated decision systems—all tools which come to firmly define this student’s envi- ronment and potential prospects. The authors follow the scenario by breaking down the major influences and forces behind this possible future reality. This analysis provides a view of the ethical dilemmas raised in such a future world and concludes with a series of proposed solutions: proactive governmental in- volvement, a reimagining of industry best practices, and an emphasis on con- text-aware, community-led, future-building initiatives.