South Korean Government’s AI Textbook Initiative Faces Setback Amid Controversy

The South Korean government’s ambitious plan to introduce AI textbooks in schools has hit a roadblock just four months after its launch. The program, which cost 1.2 trillion won ($850 million), has been rolled back due to a myriad of issues including inaccurate content, privacy concerns, and increased workloads for both teachers and students.

According to a report by Rest Of World, students have faced delays in their classes due to technical glitches with the AI textbooks. One student mentioned, “All our classes were delayed because of technical problems with the textbooks. I found it hard to stay focused and keep on track. The textbooks didn’t provide lessons tailored to my level.”

Kim Jong-hee, chief digital officer of Dong-A Publishing, one of the developers of the AI textbooks, highlighted the benefits of digital learning. He stated, “Using digital devices that students are familiar with keeps them more focused, awake, and willing to participate. The textbooks provide personalized support for students struggling with lessons.”

The Korean government initially mandated the use of AI textbooks in schools at the beginning of the school year in March. However, the program has now been classified as ‘optional’ after just one semester, with the number of schools using the AI textbooks halving in that time.

Concerns about the rushed development process of the AI textbooks were raised in the National Assembly. Legislator Kang Kyung-sook questioned the Minister for Education about the lack of careful verification and procedures in the development of the textbooks, especially considering they are targeted at children.

The failure of the AI textbook initiative has been attributed to politicization and a change in government during the rollout of the program.

While technology programs in schools are common, similar initiatives have faced challenges. For example, South Africa’s Online Schools Project and Malaysia’s 1BestariNet both encountered issues leading to their eventual termination at significant costs.

The rapid failure of the South Korean AI textbooks project, along with its high cost, underscores the challenges of integrating AI technology in education. A study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology suggested that using AI in educational settings may have negative effects on brain activity in the long run, raising concerns about its suitability for young minds.

(Image source: “Adorable sleeping students in the undergraduate library” by benchilada is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.)

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