AI future scenarios – opportunities and risks

Objective: The worksheet aims to raise learners' awareness of the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). They should learn to analyze different perspectives and make critical decisions in this controversial field of the future.

Content and methods: Learners first develop their own definition of artificial intelligence and are provided with a content basis through a case study. Using tables and role analysis, they evaluate opportunities and risks as well as the perspectives of various actors. Finally, they take a reasoned position in a decision-making task and reflect in a group on rules for the responsible use of AI.

Competencies:

Understanding AI: Defining and distinguishing between the opportunities and risks of AI.
Changing perspectives: Analyzing complex problems from different roles and attitudes.
Critical thinking: Weighing technological progress against ethical and social risks.
Decision-making skills: Developing well-founded decisions in a controversial context.

Target group and level: The worksheet is aimed at students from the 8th grade onwards and is also suitable for upper secondary school.

60 other teachers use this template

Target group and level

Middle School

Subjects

non-subject specific contentEthicsPhilosophy

Preview

AI future scenarios – opportunities and risks

Assignment

1. Answer the question.

2. Read through the situations and fill in the table with your knowledge.

Explain in your own words what you understand artificial intelligence to be.

Scenario	Opportunity ✅	Risk ⚠️	Reasoning
AI takes over dangerous or monotonous work.
AI can detect diseases earlier than doctors.
Autonomous weapons make decisions without human control.
AI systems influence elections through targeted advertising.
AI helps save energy and protect the climate.

Assignment

1. Read the case study carefully.

2. Answer the questions about the text in complete sentences.

3. Enter the most important information from the case study into the table. Consider: What attitude does the person in the case study display?

• Describe this attitude in your own words.

• Explain why you have come to this conclusion (examples from the text will help you).

💡 Tip: Make sure that your explanation shows how the person's thoughts, feelings or actions fit in with their attitude.

AI in Education: Evaluating Student Progress

In the year 2035, Belleview High School in London has implemented an advanced AI program named EduTrack to assess the learning progress of its students. The administration, led by Principal Ahmed and Vice Principal Zhao, has partnered with a tech company to integrate this AI into their educational framework. The teaching staff, including educators like Mrs. Martinez and Mr. Patel, collaborate with the AI to monitor student development. Students from diverse backgrounds, such as Emily, Raj, and Yuki, engage with personalized learning plans curated by EduTrack.

EduTrack analyzes vast amounts of data, including test scores, classroom interactions, and homework submissions, to create detailed profiles for each student. It can identify patterns and suggest tailored educational pathways, helping teachers focus on areas where students need the most support. The AI also provides real-time feedback, enabling students to understand their strengths and areas for improvement quickly. With this system, Belleview High School aims to enhance educational outcomes, making learning more efficient and personalized.

The opportunities presented by EduTrack are substantial. It allows teachers to address individual needs better and fosters an environment where students are more engaged and motivated. The AI's ability to predict potential learning hurdles early can lead to timely interventions, reducing dropout rates and improving overall academic success. Furthermore, EduTrack offers insights that enable teachers to refine their teaching strategies, leading to improved educational methodologies.

However, the reliance on AI presents risks. Privacy concerns arise as the system collects extensive personal data, raising questions about data security and consent. Additionally, there is the potential for bias in AI algorithms, which might result in unfair assessments of students from different backgrounds. Over-dependence on technology could also diminish the role of human intuition and empathy in education, making the learning experience less personal. Teachers and administrators must remain vigilant to balance AI integration with ethical considerations to ensure a safe and equitable learning environment.

Assignment

You choose a role and must decide whether the AI system described in the case study should be introduced.

Making a decision:

Carefully consider whether you would fully introduce the AI system, test it first, or reject it.

• Justify your decision.

Group discussion:

Then discuss your decision with your group.

Discuss together what rules, limits or controls would be necessary when using AI systems in order to exploit opportunities and avoid risks.

• Note down your most important findings in bullet points.

Space for notes.

Reflection and Transfer

Answer the questions using the information you have learnt.

Solution for teachers

Scenario	Opportunity ✅	Threat ⚠️	Reason
AI takes on dangerous or monotonous work.	✅	❌	Workers are relieved and accidents are reduced.
AI can detect diseases earlier than doctors.	✅	❌	Early diagnosis can save lives if the data is correct.
Autonomous weapons make decisions without human control.	❌	⚠️	Dangerous due to lack of accountability and control.
AI systems influence elections through targeted advertising.	❌	⚠️	Manipulation jeopardizes democracy and freedom of expression.
AI helps save energy and protect the climate.	✅	❌	Optimization of energy consumption and traffic flows.

Role	Possible stance	Key points / arguments
Principal Ahmed enthusiastic about efficiency	Optimistic about improved outcomes	Believes EduTrack can enhance educational outcomes, making learning more efficient and personalized.
Vice Principal Zhao ambivalent – more time, but less closeness	Cautious about privacy concerns	Concerned about data security and consent, emphasizing the need to balance AI integration with ethical considerations.
Mrs. Martinez (teacher) supportive of tailored learning	Supportive of tailored learning	Sees value in personalized learning plans that address individual student needs, enhancing engagement and motivation.
Mr. Patel (teacher) skeptical – fear of misjudgment	Concerned about bias	Worried that bias in AI algorithms might result in unfair assessments of students from different backgrounds.
Emily (student) curious – finds technology exciting	Excited about personalized learning	Enjoys the personalized learning plans and real-time feedback that help quickly understand strengths and areas for improvement.
Raj (student) unsure – wants fair assessment	Worried about data privacy	Concerned about the extensive personal data collection and its implications for privacy and consent.
Yuki (student) curious – finds technology exciting	Interested in tech integration	Intrigued by the integration of technology in education and the potential for innovative learning experiences.