National Workshop on Revolutionizing Learning: AI’s Role in Education

 

The National Workshop on Revolutionizing Learning: AI’s Role in Education commenced on Friday, February 23, 2024, at Shree Somnath Sanskrit University, Veraval. Organized by Government Science College, Veraval and the State Quality Assurance Cell, the workshop brings together eminent experts to discuss the future of learning enabled by artificial intelligence. 

The inaugural event started with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony. Dr. Smita Chhag, Principal of Government Science College, Veraval and organizer of the workshop, delivered the welcome address. She emphasized the need for revolutionizing education with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. She cited “It’s very important to learn, unlearn, and relearn.”

The keynote addresses were delivered by Dr Mahesh Jivani, Professor and Head Department of Electronics, Saurashtra University-Rajkot, and Dr Dilip Barad, Head of the Department of English M K Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar.  

We explored various AI tools that are changing the future of education. For example, ChatGPT demonstrated its conversational abilities by having natural discussions with attendees. We saw how Bing can now understand and respond to complex questions thanks to advances in large language models. Claude, an AI assistant from Anthropic, showed how it could help students with homework by explaining concepts clearly and concisely. And Microsoft's new AI capabilities allow for more personalized and adaptive learning experiences. Gemini was super impressive too - it can generate entire essays on a given topic in just seconds! Other things discussed includes indiaai, AI 4 Bharat, Bhashini

Experts talk were followed by or incorporated with some tasks also, which provided us practical insights effectively: 

We were given Prompts to input in different AI tools and share the received answers via google form provided to us. 

How AI tools can be helpful for assessment of students answers specifically descriptive answers. And how we can generate worksheets and rubrics as well. In a way it can help teachers just like an assistant does. 

How AI can help generating literature (however it must not be used to earn money or getting educational degree) I have tried to generate a 17 alphabet poem called Haiku in Gujarati on Friend and also generated some literary pieces in English as well.

Use of Microsoft office & Excel sheet skillfully. Data entry in excel is lengthy and boring process for many of us but we can click the photo of any table, upload it on excel and it will get the data entered with the help of AI added formula editor. No doubt as a machine it may make some mistakes so you need to check twice and correct the data if needed. 

Besides these, I learned about various tools like, Profile Photo Maker, Askpdf, AI Photo editors. 

What we actually need is the ability to give proper prompt in any AI to get better results. It may provide services as personal tutor for our students as its merely impossible in each and every class for a teacher to provide personalized learning experience every time but AI can help. For a teacher, it can serve as an assistant, save time and energy.   

The well-organized workshop on AI left a lasting impression. From engaging discussions to hands-on activities, it was a day of exploration. The thoughtful provision of tea, breakfast, and lunch fueled our minds. And receiving a workshop kit—filled with essentials—added to the excitement. As we continue our AI journey, these memories inspire us. 

Dr. Chiragbala Gosai, SQAC Coordinator, skillfully delivered the vote of thanks.

Here are some material or sources shared by resource person, Dr Dilip Barad, Click below given links to access: 

AI-INFUSED TECHNOLOGIES FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING | Preparing Educators for AI-Infused Pedagogy: Opportunities, Challenges, and Implications 

Enhancing English Language Teaching (ELT) with AI (ChatGPT): A Hands-On Workshop

 Note: For the content of this blog, taken help from AI as it was all about how we utilize it!

Unlocking Unconventional Wisdom: Modern Paths to Non-Traditional Knowledge

 

In a rapidly evolving world where information is at our fingertips, the pursuit of knowledge has taken on new dimensions. Beyond the confines of traditional education and established sources, there lies a vast realm of non-traditional knowledge waiting to be discovered. In this digital age, modern seekers are navigating unconventional paths to unlock insights that defy conventional boundaries. From the vibrant discussions on social media platforms to the immersive experiences offered by podcasts, webinars, and personal blogs, the avenues for procuring wisdom have expanded exponentially. Join me on a journey as we explore the exciting landscape of "Modern Methods of Procuring Non-Traditional Knowledge," delving into the diverse and innovative ways individuals today are uncovering insights that reshape our understanding of the world.  

 

• Blogs and Personal Websites:
  

Explore blogs and websites of individuals who are experts in the field. Many professionals share their experiences, research findings, and insights through personal platforms.

•  MOOCs
  

MOOCs Massive Open Online Courses, is a platform where top-notch courses from leading institutions are just a click away. These flexible, interactive online classes empower students to tailor their education, collaborate globally, and gain insights from industry leaders. Some of the platforms include: 

• SWAYAM 
• NPTEL 
• EdX 
• UDEMY 
• Coursera
• Khan Academy 
  
• Others i.e. Udacity, FutureLearn, LinkedIn Learning, Skillshare, Google IT Support Professional Certificate (on Coursera), Codecademy.
  

• Open Access Journals and Research Papers: Learners can explore a world of knowledge through freely accessible journals and research papers. Breaking down traditional barriers, these resources provide students with the latest findings and foster a culture of curiosity, offering a deep dive into academic disciplines. 

  Research Journal of English Language and Literature (RJELAL) 

  International Journal of Commerce and Economics

  NOTE: Prefer selecting articles for reading or to publish your own articles in UGC CARE LIST OF JOURNALS or PEER REVIEWED or Whatever is applicable as per the norms of Your degree and Institution/ University. 
  

• Webinars and Virtual Conferences: Learners can enter the realm of real-time knowledge exchange through webinars and virtual conferences. Attendees can engage in live discussions, pose questions to experts, and build networks transcending geographical constraints, creating opportunities for meaningful connections.

• Podcasts and Online Lectures: you can immerse yourself in auditory learning with podcasts and online lectures. These platforms offer a convenient way to absorb information on the go, providing a personal and conversational approach to learning from experts anytime, anywhere. 

  Google Podcast 

  The Naked Scientists

  TED Talks Education
  

• Online Libraries and Digital Archives: Access a treasure trove of knowledge with online libraries and digital archives. These virtual repositories transcend physical limitations, allowing students to explore diverse perspectives and delve into the annals of human achievement, uncovering hidden gems. 

  National Digital Library of India 

  Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) - Business and Economics 

  Digital Commons Network - Business 

  Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)

• AI and Machine Learning: Learning experience can be transformed with AI and machine learning. These technologies analyze vast datasets, offering personalized insights and recommendations tailored to individual preferences. From intelligent tutoring to predictive analytics, AI creates a dynamic and responsive learning environment, preparing students for an innovation-driven future. Take for example: ChatGPT

  References: 

“Introduction to Indian Knowledge Systems .” Indian Knowledge Systems, 1st ed., C. Jamnadas & Co. , Ahmedabad , Gujarat, 2023, pp. 10–12.

https://images.app.goo.gl/hJptE4UxuJNNNf4t9

 

 

 

Death

 Although we all, being human, know the ultimate truth of our life and that is DEATH obviously, we do not accept or do not want it to be accepted as it should be ?!!! The end is pre decided when we begin but when it comes to life, we cannot think of it clearly somehow. 

There are reasons of death in the world i.e. Natural death, disease, Epidemic viruses, Accidents, etc.  At the same time, we already have lots of names for the same -DEATH- viz. Execution (the carrying out of a sentence of death on a condemned person.), assassination (the murder of a prominent or important person), murder (kill someone unlawfully and with premeditation.), Suicide (suicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death) and so on and so forth.  

The Concept of death is discussed and accepted in different ways in different religions. Along with that Beliefs related to it are also multiple. These concepts include Emancipation, ghost, heaven or hell, life after death, death as the end of life or beginning of a new life? Mortality and immortality etc. 

After all there are two kinds of people: one who accepts death as a reality, the other who escapes or has fear of death.  

What type of human being are you? 

Comment your answer below. 

Discussion …..to be continued….on The Concept of Death in Literature 

ICT Tools for English Language Learning

 

·         Applications for English Language Learning 

 English is considered as the toughest thing to learn but if we look at the world, some intelligent people have come out with brilliant as well as interesting ideas to learn the English language. One of these ideas is Applications in our smart phones which can help us to learn or improve our language skills. 

BBC Learning App 

Duolingo 

Google Podcasts 

English Language Skills

English Grammar

English language listening

·         Websites/Blogs for English Language Learning

ESL POD.com 

ESL POD.com  BBC Learning

·         Dictionaries

There are many dictionaries available as applications either Online or Offline too. Here is a list of some of them:  

English Gujarati 

Oxford English Dictionary

• Offline English Dictionary

Wordweb 

·         MOOCs for English Language Learning

These are the online platforms where learners can learn different subjects, acquire knowledge, and enhance skills Anytime Anywhere they wish to learn.

Swayam 

Edx  

Coursera 

Udemy  

 for more information on MOOCs, CLICK HERE