One of the biggest debates in today's world revolves around the intersection of AI and education. Can AI replace human skills and knowledge in the agricultural sector? After all, this is a field rooted in practical knowledge and thousands of years of experience. On this International Day of Education, we focus on the theme "AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation." Wikifarmer dives deeper into this question to explore the importance of hands-on education and the knowledge of people with years of experience in agriculture.
Agriculture forms the bedrock of human civilization, its wealth of knowledge transmitted across generations through direct experience and observation. This reservoir of expertise is not theoretical but emerges from practical engagement— it includes understanding weather patterns, soil dynamics, crop behavior, and how ecosystems work together. These are intricacies that AI, reliant on algorithmic processes, cannot fully comprehend or replicate. While AI excels in processing vast quantities of existing data, it cannot fundamentally innovate or contextualize knowledge without human intervention.
The risks of overreliance on AI in education
Recent statistics underscore the growing influence of AI in content creation. More specifically, some of the latest research shows that on November 25th, 2024, the proportion of AI-generated content in Google Search Results showed a moderate increase from 18.36% in October 2024 to 18.50% in November 2024, which means that it is increasing constantly. Furthermore, it is estimated that 57% of all web-based text has been either AI-generated or translated through AI algorithms. This proliferation of AI-generated material has undeniably expanded access to information. However, it also raises profound concerns about such content's depth, authenticity, and reliability. In agriculture, where decisions carry significant implications for food security and environmental sustainability, the risks of relying on detached, recycled information are particularly acute.
Therefore, education in the agricultural sector must prioritize experiential learning guided by the wisdom of seasoned practitioners. Trusted sources and subject matter experts must remain at the forefront of educational initiatives to ensure the integrity and applicability of knowledge. An overreliance on AI risks fostering a cycle of superficial, contextually inadequate information, undermining the foundations of effective agricultural education.
The irreplaceable role of human teaching in agricultural education
While AI in education offers opportunities to enhance learning, it cannot replace the depth and contextual richness of human-taught, hands-on education in agriculture. Teaching agriculture requires more than conveying information—it involves instilling an understanding of the interconnected systems that underpin successful farming. The human touch in education ensures that learners absorb knowledge and develop critical thinking and adaptive problem-solving skills, which are indispensable in responding to the unpredictable challenges of farming, such as extreme weather events or pest outbreaks. Without this, overreliance on AI-based education risks producing knowledge gaps that could have profound implications for global food security.
About Wikifarmer Academy
The Wikifarmer Academy is an online school created to provide complete educational agriculture courses that will empower you and help you cultivate more efficiently and sustainably. It offers online courses in the agriculture sector taught by experts with years of experience in the field, ensuring that learners gain valuable knowledge. The courses include case studies that are directly applicable to real-world agriculture challenges. The Academy focuses on sustainable cultivation methods to help protect the environment while increasing productivity. By supporting these practices, the courses also contribute to improving food security, empowering farmers and agricultural professionals to build a better future sustainably.