Artificial Intelligence is set to revolutionise the education sector, potentially becoming the primary source of learning while schools evolve into structured childcare spaces, according to Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn. Speaking on the No Priors podcast hosted by venture capitalist Sarah Guo, von Ahn highlighted the transformative power of AI tutors, suggesting they could soon surpass human teachers in scalability and effectiveness.
Rather than signalling the end of traditional schooling, von Ahn envisions a shift in purpose. “I don’t believe schools will disappear or that teachers will become irrelevant,” he remarked. “Instead, schools may increasingly serve as safe, supervised environments where children are nurtured, while AI handles the instructional component.”
One of the key advantages of AI, von Ahn noted, is its capacity for personalised learning. In conventional classrooms, tailoring education to each student’s needs is a persistent challenge, particularly in larger groups. AI-powered systems, however, can adapt content in real time, addressing each learner’s strengths and weaknesses with precision beyond the reach of a single educator.
Von Ahn acknowledged that the transition would not happen overnight. Resistance from entrenched educational systems, regulatory frameworks, and cultural expectations presents significant barriers. Yet, he is optimistic about AI’s growing presence in classrooms, especially in regions struggling to provide high-quality education at scale.
This evolution is already underway in countries like South Korea, where around 30% of schools have introduced AI-enabled digital textbooks since March, according to Nikkei Asia. These textbooks, showcased during a recent APEC education summit, allow students to solve problems interactively on tablets while receiving instant feedback — a model that reflects AI’s potential to enhance engagement and efficiency.
However, the shift towards AI-integrated learning is not without challenges. Disparities in access to digital resources and the need to retrain educators to collaborate with AI systems are critical concerns. Moreover, the conversation around AI’s role in education extends beyond schools. LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman recently underscored the urgency for universities to adapt to a future where AI is central to learning.
As AI continues to embed itself into educational frameworks globally, the fundamental nature of teaching and schooling may undergo a profound transformation.
