AI in education requires critical digital inclusion and strategic teaching

Educators and specialists are debating the integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms, emphasizing the need for critical digital inclusion rather than mere access to technology. At the 4th Meeting of 21st Century Educators in Rio de Janeiro, UNESCO consultant Daniela Costa argued that digital inclusion must be 'significant and critical,' focusing on teaching students how to use tools with purpose and awareness of risks.

In Peru, discussions at CADE Educação 2026 highlighted a gap in AI implementation. While adoption is high, only 8% of teachers have integrated AI into their core teaching methodologies. This comes amid concerns regarding declining reading comprehension and mathematical reasoning skills among students.

Experts suggest that AI should serve as a tool to enhance teaching rather than replace it, focusing on developing human skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and professional judgment to ensure students do not rely on technology at the expense of actual learning.