Adnan Boyacı: AI cannot replace the role of teachers

During the ‘Looking at School with Data’ event held in Eskişehir, Professor Adnan Boyacı addressed the current state of education in Turkey and globally. The event was organized through a collaboration between the Education Reform Initiative (ERG) and the Teacher Network at Anadolu University.

Boyacı highlighted a persistent global learning crisis, referencing a 2017 World Bank report to note that this trend continues across both developed and developing nations. He observed that shifting family sociology and the weakening of traditional family structures have placed unprecedented burdens on teachers, who must now navigate changing social values and student behaviors.

Regarding technological advancements, Boyacı emphasized that while artificial intelligence can provide support, it can never replace the role of teachers and school administrators. He argued that even the most advanced technologies and updated curricula will fail to achieve their intended impact unless they are supported by the dedication and engagement of educators, whom he identified as the primary strategic actors in education.