October 23, 2024

KUCHING: Generative artificial intelligence (AI)—once a novelty confined to research labs—is now becoming commonplace in educational settings.

For both students and teachers, generative AI tools are reshaping the learning experience in profound ways.

“Generative AI is transforming education by offering new ways for students to learn and for teachers to engage,” said Ts. Syahrul Nizam Junaini, a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS).

For example, language students are using AI to enhance their writing skills.

In art classes, AI programs help students explore new techniques by generating images based on specific themes or styles.

A workshop titled “Generative AI for Teachers & Students” was held at Pustaka Negeri Sarawak.

Delivered by Syahrul Nizam, the event explored how technology meets imagination to unlock new possibilities.

Organized by American Corner Sarawak, the workshop aimed to provide insights into the practical applications of generative AI in the classroom.

“This is a great opportunity for educators and students to learn how to integrate generative AI tools effectively,” said Syahrul.

“It’s about empowering students and teachers to harness technology in a way that enhances learning outcomes.”

Generative AI also holds promise for making education more accessible.

As AI continues to evolve, so too will its role in education.

Experts like Syahrul foresee a future where AI and human instruction coexist harmoniously, each complementing the other’s strengths.

Participants also found the workshop enlightening.

“This program is very beneficial to our students. It has exposed them to ways of using AI applications in their learning. They have been shown how to generate useful prompts to help them revise their lessons interactively,” said Abdul Qahar Yusop, a teacher from Sekolah Menengah Sains Kuching.

Generative AI is more than a technological trend.

It is a transformative force in education.

As classrooms continue to adapt, one thing is clear—the future of education is being shaped by both human and artificial intelligence, working hand in hand.

Syahrul Nizam interacting with participants of the Generative AI Workshop (Photo: Pustaka Negeri Sarawak)
Syahrul Nizam delivering his talk about generative AI (Photo: Pustaka Negeri Sarawak)

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