BIC Hoof Prints: AI: A Technology That Must Be Regulated
Artificial Intelligence, commonly referred to as AI, has been one of the primary talking points of the last few years. While some are hopeful of a brighter future brought on by this technology, others remain worried about the grim expectations that AI can have on the changing world to come.
The Education Crisis
Despite the enthusiasm from tech companies about the benefits of AI, it is likely to be detrimental to the future of mankind. For instance, Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, made headlines in 2025 with his bold prediction that AI would replace teachers. While it is unclear if AI will ever truly have the capability to replace educators, one thing is clear: Artificial Intelligence has made it increasingly challenging for teachers tasked with educating students today.
BIC English teacher Makensie Walker explained the difficulties that AI presents in the educational landscape:
“AI makes it really hard to delineate between students who are improving and students who are cheating. With advanced tools like AI, students are able to cut corners, which hurts their learning skills that will be applicable in the future,” said Walker.
Data corroborates Ms. Walker’s claims. According to a study by Education Week, half of the students reported that using AI in class makes them feel less connected to their teachers. Furthermore, a decrease in peer-to-peer connections due to AI use is a concern for 47% of teachers and 50% of parents, highlighting that AI is not only impairing social skills in children but also fabricating an education crisis.
The Negative Impact on Learning
The implications of AI on education are complex and, at present, appear to be a net negative for students. For instance, students can easily upload a photo of their assignment, and AI can provide the answer with no critical thinking involved. Consequently, it becomes tremendously difficult for teachers to discern authentic student work from AI-generated outputs. It is conceivable that by 2026, a student could navigate through high school without ever having written an essay themselves.
Environmental Concerns
Beyond education, AI poses significant environmental challenges. Generating a single image using AI consumes the same amount of energy as charging a smartphone to full power. AI data facilities exert considerable pressure on local energy infrastructures, consuming vast amounts of power. It is estimated that by 2050, the growth of AI could contribute up to 44 million metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, according to Cornell University. This exacerbates the threats of global warming.
The Need for Regulation
AI was initially created for beneficial purposes but has quickly morphed into a threat to not only students and the American populace but also to the environment and the world as a whole. While AI currently seems inevitable, there are actionable solutions to address the problems it creates. It is imperative that government officials regulate AI by:
- Reducing the use of AI in schools rather than promoting it.
- Enacting legislation that controls the carbon emissions generated by this hazardous technology.
The consequences of AI must be managed before it is too late. Ensuring a balanced approach will safeguard both educational integrity and environmental sustainability.
