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The Importance of Human Touch in Student Evaluation: 5 Reasons AI Should Not be Used to Mark Students' Work


teacher working with students

In the ever-evolving landscape of education technology, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked debates about the role of technology in student assessment. While AI offers efficiency and scalability, the essence of human interaction and evaluation cannot be replaced. In this editorial, we delve into the critical reasons why AI should not be used as the sole means of marking students' work, emphasising the irreplaceable value of human contact in the educational process.


1. Contextual Understanding


AI, despite its advancements, still struggles to grasp the nuances and complexities present in student work. Education is not just about the answers provided; it is about the journey of learning and the critical thinking involved. Only a teacher can interpret the context, creativity, and depth of understanding that students exhibit in their work.


2. Personalised Feedback


One of the fundamental aspects of effective teaching is providing personalised feedback tailored to each student's individual learning needs. While AI can generate generalised feedback based on predetermined algorithms, it lacks the empathy and insight required to address the unique strengths and weaknesses of each student. Personal touch in feedback motivates students, fosters growth, and cultivates a sense of connection that AI cannot replicate.


3. Subjectivity and Creativity


Education is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it thrives on varied perspectives, creativity, and critical thinking. AI operates on predefined criteria and patterns, limiting its ability to appreciate the innovative and unconventional solutions that students often present. Human markers bring subjectivity, adaptability, and creativity to assessment, acknowledging the diverse ways in which knowledge can be expressed.


4. Moral and Ethical Considerations


AI algorithms are programmed by humans and are susceptible to biases present in the data they are trained on. Using AI to mark students' work raises concerns about fairness, transparency, and equity in evaluation. Teachers adhere to ethical standards, consider the broader educational impact of their feedback, and ensure a more holistic and mindful assessment process.


5. Emotional Intelligence and Support


Beyond evaluating academic content, human markers offer emotional intelligence and support to students. Feedback provided by a teacher goes beyond correcting mistakes; it motivates, encourages, and instils confidence in students. The emotional connection established through direct feedback plays a significant role in student engagement, retention, and overall well-being.


In conclusion, while AI technology demonstrates remarkable capabilities, it cannot replace the profound impact of human interaction and evaluation in the educational realm. The essence of teaching lies not only in assessing knowledge but also in nurturing growth, creativity, and emotional intelligence. As professionals in the educational field, it is essential to preserve the invaluable role of human markers in shaping the educational journey of students.


By prioritising human touch in student evaluation, we uphold the essence of education as a transformative and empowering experience where students are not just assessed but truly understood and supported.




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