Beyond Work: AI and Educational Labour

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education has prompted significant reflection on the nature of work and labour among teachers and students. This essay examines the implications of AI on educational labour, highlighting the distinction between work, encompassing unpaid and broader educational contributions, and labour, defined by economic metrics. AI’s capability to perform educational tasks raises concerns about its potential to replace certain aspects of teaching while emphasizing its limitations in fostering genuine educational experiences. The discussion explores how AI may transform schooling and education, reshaping roles and responsibilities, and addressing broader socio-economic and technological dynamics. Ultimately, this analysis considers the future of work in education amidst the evolving presence of AI. Keywords: Educational labour, work and labour dichotomy, post-work society, AI and educational reform