In China, parents are leveraging AI technology to monitor their children's homework, offering a unique blend of convenience and support. Lu Qijun, a television journalist, employs an AI chatbot named Dola, developed by ByteDance (the creators of TikTok), to guide her son through his homework. Dola's voice provides gentle reminders to maintain posture, pace, and focus, all while Lu is away. This innovative approach is not just about convenience; it reflects a broader shift in China's educational landscape. As economic growth slows, families are reassessing their education expenses, making private tutoring, once common among the urban middle class, less feasible. Lu Qijun shares light-hearted videos of her son's reactions to Dola's instructions on social media, attracting thousands of views from fellow parents. However, the use of AI in education is not without controversy. Some parents, like Wu Yuting, find that AI helps them avoid conflict with their children, as the technology provides a calm and consistent presence. Yet, experts like Dr. Qi Jing caution that AI should be a tool, not a substitute for parental or teacher supervision. They emphasize the importance of clear boundaries, as AI may not fully understand the context of a child's behavior. Jeannie Paterson, co-director of the Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, advocates for limits on AI usage time, age-appropriate language, and safeguards against harmful content. The debate centers on the balance between AI's efficiency and the development of essential social skills. While AI can assist with tasks, it's crucial to ensure it doesn't replace human interaction, especially for young children. As AI technology continues to evolve, parents must carefully consider its role in their children's education, striking a balance between convenience and the development of critical thinking and social skills.
