The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: A Toulmin Model Argumentative Essay

Answer 1

Introduction:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an increasingly important tool in many industries, and its impact on higher education cannot be underestimated. This essay will argue that AI has the potential to revolutionize higher education by improving accessibility, personalization, and efficiency. Using the Toulmin model of argumentation, this essay will present evidence and reasoning to support this claim.

Claim 1: AI improves accessibility in higher education.
Evidence 1: Online education platforms powered by AI, such as Coursera and edX, have made high-quality education accessible to millions of learners worldwide. These platforms offer a wide range of courses from renowned universities that can be accessed from anywhere and at any time. This has particularly benefited individuals who cannot afford traditional higher education or face geographical constraints.
Evidence 2: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can provide immediate responses to student queries, enhancing support services available to students. For example, the Georgia State University implemented Pounce, an AI chatbot, which helped to increase graduation rates by 5-7% among at-risk students.
Reasoning: By removing barriers such as cost and location, AI enables a more inclusive and diverse higher education environment, empowering individuals who wouldn't have had the opportunity otherwise.

Claim 2: AI enables personalized learning experiences.
Evidence 1: Adaptive learning platforms, such as Cerego, use AI algorithms to tailor educational content and pacing to individual students' needs. These platforms continually analyze student performance data and adjust the materials accordingly. As a result, students can learn at their own pace, focusing on areas that require more attention or moving faster through content they have already mastered.
Evidence 2: AI-based learning analytics can provide insights into individual student progress, allowing educators to identify areas of improvement and provide targeted support. The University of Arizona used an AI tool called GradeCraft, which helped instructors track student performance and intervene when necessary. The tool led to a 7% increase in student success rates.
Reasoning: Personalized learning experiences have been shown to enhance student engagement, motivation, and retention. AI's ability to adapt to students' unique learning needs and provide personalized support can significantly improve learning outcomes in higher education.

Claim 3: AI enhances efficiency in higher education.
Evidence 1: AI-powered grading systems, such as Turnitin and Grammarly, can provide quick and accurate feedback on students' assignments, saving instructors time and ensuring consistent evaluation. This allows instructors to focus on higher-order skills, such as critical thinking and creativity, rather than spending excessive time on administrative tasks.
Evidence 2: AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and trends in student performance, helping institutions identify areas where curriculum and instructional methods can be improved. The University of Central Florida utilized AI to analyze student data and made changes to their course delivery methods, resulting in a 7% improvement in student success rates.
Reasoning: By automating routine tasks and providing valuable insights, AI streamlines administrative processes and fosters instructional improvement, ultimately increasing efficiency in higher education.

Counterargument:
Some critics argue that the increasing reliance on AI in higher education may diminish the role of teachers and dehumanize the learning experience. They contend that interaction with human instructors is crucial for social and emotional development.
Response:
While AI does have the potential to automate certain administrative tasks, it also allows instructors to focus on more meaningful interactions with students. By freeing up their time, educators can provide individualized feedback, guidance, and mentorship, fostering deeper connections with students.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the impact of AI in higher education is extensive and transformative. Through improved accessibility, personalization, and efficiency, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we learn and teach. However, it is essential to strike a balance between the use of AI and the preservation of human interaction in education. By leveraging the benefits of AI while preserving the role of human instructors, we can create a future where higher education is more accessible, personalized, and efficient.