Nowadays, the Argentine schools face the dilemma of maintaining basic content or adapting to a world in which digital literacy It is as relevant as conventional literacy at the time; Even seeing the distance between rural and urban institutions, as well as between public and private schools, is increasing, which forces teachers to face diverse classrooms.
This is then where the new equation lies, to which immediate answers must be given: the “AI” (artificial intelligence) in the classrooms, thinking of it more as an ally than as a threat. The appearance of AI in daily life gives rise to the debate regarding how we can incorporate it into education without replacing critical thinking.
Platforms that suggest personalized bibliography, correct exams and create laboratory simulations are already being used in universities in Argentina and, in some secondary schools, some teachers use AI tools to create interactive lessons or to support the learning process in students with comprehension difficulties.
However, we warn a double risk: that artificial intelligence becomes a tool only for those who have access to devices and connection, (which would increase inequality) and that it is used as a shortcut that weakens students’ ability to reason and be creative.
That is why we are going to need clear policies aimed at training teachers in the critical use of these technologies, ensuring a “equal access” and, above all, instruct our children so that they know how to differentiate between reliable information and (digital) manipulation.
We are clear that childhood develops in a context that is absolutely different from that of past generations; today children grow up surrounded by screens, with access to global content from childhood and continually exposed to stimuli that shape their attention and social relationships.
Let’s add that economic difficulties make things confusing; Many families have to work more to compensate, which reduces the time spent together at home.
Certainly, the challenge is twofold: on the one hand, ensuring that children have access to enriching cultural and educational experiences, and at the same time safeguarding them from the dangers of “hyperconnectivity“Not only the school, but also public policies that guarantee the comprehensive development of students, including appropriate nutrition, play areas, health care and emotional support, will continue to be fundamental.
In a world of extreme competition, Argentine children need to be treated as irreplaceable social capital!
Inflation, job insecurity and the obstacles to planning a stable future in this scenario, and the role of the family as educational and emotional support becomes more important than at any other time; Fathers and mothers must reconcile long working hours with the need to guide our children during their learning, where we cannot abandon or relegate them.
We see many circumstances where the resilience of Argentine families is notable: they organize in community networks, participate in school cooperatives, look for extracurricular training alternatives and uphold values of solidarity, but all under economic pressure that erodes the ability to provide a safe and stable environment.
In light of all this, what can we ask of the politicians in power (looking at the latest electoral results), if not to put aside sterile confrontation and reach agreements regarding education and the future of young people, where it is necessary for leaders to understand that investment in education is not an expensebut the foundation for the economic and social progress of the future that is knocking on our door.
That the measures taken ensure that all students have access to devices, connection and training in digital skills; train teachers in artificial intelligence, train teachers to incorporate these tools in a critical and creative way; the role also of the unions opening their doors to accompany all these processes and provide support and training; add support programs for children with spaces to play, taking into account mental health and nutrition as fundamental rights.
And finally, generate incentives for research and innovation, establishing connections between universities, companies and government institutions in order to create high-quality jobs.
Government leaders at all levels have to rise to the occasion so that the future of Argentina is positive, and far from “educational shipwreck”.
*Alexis Chaves is a political scientist and parliamentary analyst.
