The success of any group of people depends on its level of education.

Education and economic success have long been entwined. Those who improve their ability to think and reason also increase the likelihood of improving their economic situation. Economic success and upward social mobility begin in school.

While getting a high school diploma is critical for initial success, real social mobility and sustainable economic strength are the result of obtaining a postsecondary degree. Incorporating artificial intelligence in instructional programs increases the likelihood of a successful education.

AI is poised to change not only how learners advance their studies, but also how they can position themselves in social networks.

How AI in education changes opportunities for social mobility

Artificial intelligence has opened new doors to the world beyond the classroom by changing how educators deliver instruction as well as when and where that learning takes place.

Just-in-time instruction supports students.

AI in education has the ability to alter the curriculum landscape by providing students with customizable and differentiated lessons.

Personalized learning produces several benefits. Students access learning modules at their own pace, which can be critical for students needing more time to build a learning foundation.

The one-on-one instruction yields twice the growth in learning, with traditional education performing at the 50^th percentile in traditional teacher-led classrooms but performing at the 98^th percentile with AI-augmented learning. Students get the instructional support they need, when they need it.

Learning is convenient and relevant.

Not all students have the luxury of focusing exclusively on their studies; they work to support themselves and their families. Many postsecondary students seek flexible learning opportunities that fit their schedules. As a result, universities have responded to this need, and enrollment in online university classes has grown by as much as 7.1% in a single year. More than half of the matriculated students in any university have taken at least one online course.

Online courses by themselves are merely extensions of the classroom. However, when learning management systems incorporate AI features such as data mining and chatbots, learning becomes more personal and relevant. AI-assisted programs in online courses offer a richer learning experience because of their ability to interpret, analyze and respond to learner responses.

AI increases socialization opportunities for all students.

If you’ve asked Siri or Alexa for help, you’ve used artificial intelligence. Although the results are sometimes humorous, AI creates a more seamless user experience.

Imagine doing the same thing in education. Artificial intelligence can curate, synchronize, and evaluate learner progress. AI also encourages more socialization on the part of the students, as they interact with their teacher, peers, and even subject matter experts from around the world. AI broadens the educational experience.

More specifically, AI in education can be particularly useful for students diagnosed with autism. Communication and socialization can be difficult for autistic learners. Robots like Milo, which are designed with AI can teach autistic students when and how to use emotions, display empathy, and act with social appropriateness.

The AI impact on social mobility

By personalizing learning, making it relevant, and increasing human socialization experiences, AI in education can augment the likelihood of social mobility for all students, regarding of background, socio-economic status, or condition.