Navigating Education (in a world of AI) with Godly Wisdom - 5 May

Once again, the co-workers came together for this 3^rd Co-Workers’ Fellowship with an earnest desire to learn and to grow in understanding in how AI affects and impacts education.

We were encouraged by a good turnout of co-workers joining us. It was especially heartening to see lay elders and new people with us. We began with a sumptuous lunch at 12 pm, followed by prayer in small groups of five to six at 1.15 pm.

At around 1.30 pm, Rev Peter Chan led us in singing 4 beautiful songs: “Majesty (Jack Hayford)”, “Give Them All to Jesus”, “Part the Waters, Lord” and “Thank You, Lord, for the rain that you sent (Anonymous)”. Then, Pr Yee Lin from AMKPC introduced our speaker, Dr Ng Pak Tee, a faithful Christian educator with long experience in leadership, policy, and educational change. Dr Ng spoke on “Navigating Education (in an AI world) with Godly Wisdom”, the third of our series on Leadership in the Age of AI, organised by our EP Equipping Committee.

A key starting point of his talk was his recap on focusing on God first, instead of AI.

1. A Recap on Artificial Intelligence 

Dr Ng started the talk by giving a recap on what he shared in March. As we knew in the book of Ecclesiastes, there is nothing “new” under the sun, even though the power of AI may have been far greater that previous technologies. What captured my attention was how we may apply godly wisdom with God’s Word in navigating this latest technological movement - this greatly matters in how we may we live lives pleasing to God in this AI saturated world.

Dr Ng posted these two valid questions which are as follows:

a.      Is there still a need for “basics”?

b.      Is there still a need for Teachers?

2. Artificial Intelligence and Education 

Dr Ng posed this thought-provoking question: “If Artificial Intelligence is artificial intelligence, what is real intelligence?” The answer he gave is insightful: “Education should centre around this question. We should use the power of AI to create platforms for real intelligence to be exercised and to flourish.” This set a rightful tone for the whole talk.

3. The Paradox of Technology and Teachers. 

Dr Ng pointed out that “The more we emphasize the importance of technology, the more we need to emphasize the importance of the human teacher.”

4. ⁠What is Real Intelligence?

Dr Ng concluded with the thought that real intelligence is what created artificial intelligence in the first place. Wisdom is what keeps real intelligence the master of artificial intelligence, and Godly Wisdom is what keeps intelligence and worldly wisdom aligned with God. Drawing on Ecclesiastes, Dr Ng reminded us that we should "fear God and keep His commandments for this is the duty of all mankind". So the correct responses to AI challenges are the fear of God and the knowledge of God and His Word.

Personally, I found the talk useful in contrasting with what is real and what is artificial. It reminded me that while technology advancement is necessary, the way we manage it is far important. We need godly wisdom to overcome worldly wisdom.

We thank God for our EP Co-Workers’ Fellowship where we can be strengthened through mutual encouragement,

and reflection on important and relevant topics. Do join us for our next gathering on 7 July.