Deep learning in education is becoming more and more of a focus recently, and it’s best to know exactly what the term refers to and how it can help students. Simply put, deep learning refers to the skills a student needs to think flexibly and to be able to apply what they’ve learned from one context to different situations.
Machine learning, however, refers to the science of getting computers to learn like humans do, and is integral to the development of AI. The process allows them to learn over time automatically, by feeding them information in the form of observations and different interactions.
How does deep learning relate to machine learning?
Interestingly, both AI developers and educators use similar methods to achieve the same goals. For example, deep learning development in AI trains a computational model using huge amounts of data to allow the model to learn and adapt to this information. The model then is tested and learns from experience, being retained until the model can correctly answer questions using this data.
The method described here is very similar to deep learning in education. Both techniques involve teaching the subject, either human or machine, to gather information and apply it to varying situations, with an emphasis being placed on adapting this knowledge to their current needs.
Therefore, by studying machine learning, educators can apply the principles towards teaching their students these hugely important skills.
Why Is Deep Learning Important?
The skills taught by deep learning are incredibly important, especially in modern times. When looking at some of these skills in detail, it becomes obvious why.
Critical thinking, for example, teaches students to look at different sides of an argument and view them objectively. Using critical thinking, students can discount arguments that rely on emotional manipulation and fallacies and get to the heart of an issue.
Communication and collaboration are necessary to navigate all aspects of life, and problem-solving is also necessary for whatever subject or obstacle someone comes across.
Finally, deep learning teaches students how to learn. Meaning that they can effectively gather information and understand it at a much deeper level than just a surface level search would provide.
Deep learning in education is a good step towards raising a generation that can fend for themselves and adapt to whatever circumstances they come across, especially in this changing world.
So how can deep learning be developed and how useful is digital and machine learning when it comes to deep learning in education?
Developing Deep Learning Skills
Now that the importance of deep learning is established, how can you become a deep learner yourself, or encourage your children to do this? Some UK boarding schools excel in training students on how to develop these skills.
These schools use new pedagogies for deep learning in education, which is the use of teaching strategies such as active learning partnerships with students. For example, a teacher may use open-ended questions to encourage students to think more deeply and meaningfully about a subject, allowing them to come to a more in-depth understanding of whatever subject is being taught.
The student has to actively engage with what they are learning and analyze the data that they’re provided with. After developing these skills in one subject, the student can apply them with
something else they’re being taught. Eventually, the student will be able to do this process themselves, having successfully ‘learned how to learn.’
This process is not limited to gifted students either, as even younger children can begin to learn in this way. Adults can also develop these skills themselves, although obviously the sooner they are taught, the better.
Machine Learning in The Classroom
Digital learning is also a tool often used to help educators teach in this way. Again, we see machine learning being implemented in AI’s which are developed specifically for the classroom.
An example of this would be virtual assistants that allow the teacher to save time and focus on their students. The AI can help teachers to understand how their students are progressing and to create a specialized learning environment.
Technology can also help students to build their skills in research, communicating with others, or even design projects for themselves. This can allow students to be more and more involved in their own learning.
Private Education is at the forefront of developing these new teaching methods and strategies and redefining education.
So What is Machine Learning Anyway?