Abu Dhabi Educators Confront AI Integration Challenges Amid 'AI Anxiety'
Published on 4.6.25
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education has taken a significant step forward with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge's (ADEK) 'AI for Teachers' programme, which aims to equip educators with AI skills to enhance their teaching methods. The training, led by Dr Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Executive Director of the Higher Education Sector at ADEK, has already been implemented in classrooms and shared among colleagues.
However, despite the potential benefits of AI in education, nearly 40% of teachers experience 'AI anxiety', citing concerns over the spread of false information, threats to data security and privacy, and job displacement. This anxiety is a pressing issue that educators must address as they navigate the integration of AI into their teaching practices.
A recent survey on AI literacy among Gen Z has found that this demographic's understanding of AI has surged exponentially, with 23.8% claiming advanced knowledge. The majority (95%) incorporate AI into their work or study routines, with 55.4% classified as frequent users.
The survey highlights the growing importance of AI in education, particularly among young people who prioritize four core applications: productivity enhancement, creative ideation, and social facilitation through AI-generated response recommendations.
As educators continue to adapt to this new landscape, it is essential to address the concerns surrounding AI anxiety and ensure that teachers are equipped with the necessary skills to harness its potential benefits.