Balancing AI and Human Agency in Education for Smarter Learning.
In the current educational landscape, we are experiencing the benefits and challenges of integrating AI and educational technologies in the classroom. The adoption of EdTech solutions is often hindered by a lack of funding, inadequate infrastructure, compatibility issues, hesitation to utilise technology and insufficient teacher training. While AI promises to support personalised and enhanced learning experiences, overcoming these challenges requires a strategic approach that combines creativity and practical support.
Alef Education addresses these challenges with innovative solutions that help educators integrate technology into their classrooms seamlessly. One such innovation is the Alef AI Tutor—Ask Dhabi, an intelligent tutoring system designed to enhance student learning. Recent data reveals a 54% increase in student usage and greater engagement per session. A quasi-experimental study further demonstrated its impact, showing a 22% growth in student performance among those using the Alef AI Tutor. These results highlight the effectiveness of AI-driven support in fostering academic growth while ensuring that technology remains a tool to enhance—rather than replace—human agency in education.
An integrated approach prioritising inclusivity, accountability and transparency is necessary to ensure that AI-driven learning upholds human values and ethical principles. This includes creating clear moral standards, minimising bias, developing AI solutions that consider students’ needs, and protecting data privacy. From planning to implementation, Alef Education’s operations are guided by values and ethics that align with the AI principles of the Future of Life Institute. For example, the company offers solutions that simplify administrative tasks and provide data-driven insights so educators can focus on teaching and supporting students. It also offers professional development to help teachers better use AI in the classroom.
Collaboration between schools and EdTech companies is key to bridging the gap between pedagogy and technology. Geoffrey Alphonso, CEO of Alef Education explained: “Promoting innovative teaching methods requires close collaboration between EdTech companies and educators. EdTech companies must offer digital tools and data-driven solutions that enhance learning, while educators offer insightful strategies on curriculum standards and student needs. Our partnership with New Century Education (NCE) in Abu Dhabi illustrates this perfectly. With 4,898 students on board for the 2023-2024 school year, NCE schools reported a monthly active user rate of 95.7% on the Alef Platform.”
Alef Education sees constant feedback from teachers and students as crucial to developing future-proof solutions. “Our internal development team and UX specialists are constantly refining the platform. Through user surveys, direct interactions and school visits, we receive immediate feedback that allows us to prioritise improvements efficiently. To improve teaching strategies and unlock student potential, our team of data scientists regularly analyse educational data and school feedback,” adds Geoffrey Alphonso.
To assess the impact of AI-driven educational technologies on student outcomes, schools must implement a balanced strategy incorporating AI, machine learning and big data while staying true to traditional teaching. One example of this is the Alef Platform, which assesses student performance, identifies strengths and areas for improvement and offers personalised learning experiences tailored to each learner’s needs. With this strategy, teachers remain vital to students’ social, emotional, and critical thinking development, even as technology transforms education.
For more information about Alef Education and to book an appointment: