When we talk about artificial intelligence, we are talking about the development and ability of intelligent machine systems to perform simple or complex tasks that are usually performed by humans. Also, some of these intelligent machine systems can exhibit behavioral and emotional reactions that are distinctly human.

However, as educators, we need to understand artificial intelligence on a deeper level, not just on the surface. If we stop at a surface definition and understanding, we will miss out on all of the amazing things that this technology can do for the field of education. As a first step let’s discuss what the 4 types of artificial intelligence are and what educators should know about them. This will give you a more refined understanding our how it can be used to improve student outcomes.

Reactive AI – A simple rules engine. Specializes in one area such as hotel pricing, grading, board games, etc. They don’t have a concept of the past, historical data, nor the ability to conceive a future. These machines can only work in the present, focusing on the task that is directly in front of them.

Limited Memory AI – Multifaceted rules engine with statistical and analysis, higher order thinking, and cognitive skills. They can reason, plan, solve, think abstractly, understand complex ideas and concepts, and learn rapidly from experience. As the name implies, these systems contain a memory system that is short lived. They can look back into their past, but only for a short duration of time. This concept is incorporated in self-driving cars, which have sensors that detect when a pedestrian is crossing a walkway, poor road conditions, weather, inward vehicle, lane detection, and traffic lights. This technology has been instrumental in helping autonomous cars avoid accidents.

Theory of Mind AI – 10 times stronger than the most complex human brains. They have wisdom, social skills, and massive amounts of knowledge and can perform at a high level in any task. This form of artificial intelligence can understand the concept of emotions and people and change their behavior accordingly. Such systems are relatively new, but the AI world is making significant progress in developing machines that can recognize our eye, face, and other body movements, and then respond accordingly.

Self-Aware AI- This type of artificial intelligence is still in the conceptual stages, but in the future, it could have the potential for real-world application. With this form of AI, robots, machines, and computers are supremely aware of who and what they are and understand their capabilities and limitations. This type of AI is an extension of the Theory of Mind form of artificial intelligence. Theoretically, if you are at an at a market and you steal an AI robot’s parking spot, they will understand what is happening, and react. I would run if I were you.

What do you think? Could you see self-aware AI being of use to the education sector?