Generative AI in Education: Technical Foundations, Applications, and Challenges

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) (GenAI) has emerged as a transformative force in various fields, and its potential impact on education is particularly profound. This chapter presents the development trends of “GenAI in Education” by exploring the technical background, diverse applications, and multifaceted challenges associated with its adoption in education. The chapter briefly introduces the technical background of GenAI, particularly the development of large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT & Co. It provides key concepts, models, and recent technological advances. The chapter then navigates through the various applications of GenAI or LLMs in education, examining their impact on different levels of education, including school, university, and vocational training. The chapter will highlight how GenAI is reshaping the educational landscape through real-world examples and case studies, from personalized learning experiences to content creation and assessment. It also discusses various technical, ethical, and organizational/educational challenges to using technology in education.