Can Parents Trust AI Teachers? Competition Heats Up (AI Translation)

【周刊提前读】学习机内卷升级 家长能信任“AI教师"吗？

Qin Xin, a parent, has frequently been disappointed by various educational devices purchased for her child. Each new product initially sparked enthusiasm but eventually resulted in disinterest due to misaligned resources and impractical courses [para. 1]. Recently, she noticed an improvement in her child's exam scores after using an AI learning machine at a neighbor's house, prompting her to consider buying one [para. 2].

Despite a declining overall tablet market, educational tablets have grown significantly, with shipments in China rising to 4.721 million units in 2023, an 8.1% increase year-over-year [para. 3]. The rise in demand is influenced by pandemic-induced changes in educational scenarios and the "double reduction" policy [para. 4]. Learning devices are now the most popular educational hardware, chosen by nearly 70% of parents [para. 5].

In Europe and America, AI teaching tools are typically provided online, whereas in China, parents prefer hardware solutions that do not rely heavily on the internet [para. 6]. Initial AI learning devices had limited capabilities, but since 2023, advancements in large AI models have vastly improved these products [para. 7]. Established firms like BBK Electronics and Readboy, as well as education companies like TAL Education and NetEase Youdao, are leading the market, supplemented by tech giants like iFlytek and Baidu [para. 8]. Market competition is intense, and in the first quarter of 2024, the top four brands held a 49.8% market share, an 11.3% decline from the previous year [para. 9].

AI is reducing the time students spend on repetitive tasks, although its full potential remains to be seen [para. 10]. The "Double Reduction" policy and home-based learning during the COVID-19 pandemic have triggered a revival in the learning tablet market, with shipments nearing 4 million units from Q4 2021 to Q2 2022 [para. 11]. Large AI models like OpenAI's ChatGPT have introduced new industry development opportunities [para. 12].

Educational applications of AI differ between Western and Chinese companies, with Chinese firms often developing vertical models to address local needs [para. 13][para. 14]. Companies are leveraging model distillation and other techniques to implement these models in educational hardware [para. 15]. Teachers and education experts play a crucial role in designing successful educational products, despite the machines' growing capabilities [para. 16]. Large models are expected to enhance product capabilities, from language learning to real-time problem-solving [para. 17].

AI learning devices now feature advanced functionalities supported by machine learning, natural language processing, and other technologies, enabling personalized learning [para. 18]. While current AI abilities in devices still fall short of real teachers, they are improving rapidly [para. 19]. Large model applications in education aim to address key issues using specialized models tailored to educational needs [para. 20].

Companies face challenges like high costs for training and inference, limiting rapid development in large models. The synergy between production and model application is crucial for iterative improvements [para. 21]. The market's competitive landscape increases operational costs but also allows for long-term gains by potentially reducing the need for multiple models to support various functionalities [para. 22].

Current AI technologies mainly enhance knowledge acquisition and problem-solving but are yet to redefine educational philosophy fundamentally. Progressive educational reforms, such as "large unit teaching," emphasize holistic understanding and real-life application of knowledge [para. 23]. Practical applications of AI, like reducing repetitive tasks and fostering independent learning, are gradually reshaping classroom roles [para. 24]. The government's "Education Informatization 2.0 Action Plan" aims to leverage technology to promote educational equity and quality, transcending traditional geographical limitations [para. 25].

Despite significant strides in AI integration in education, its primary role remains an assistant rather than a replacement for teachers, highlighting ongoing efforts to balance technological advancements with educational equity and holistic student development [para. 26].