Artificial intelligence is evolving faster than most of us can fully grasp. New tools appear almost overnight, capabilities shift rapidly, and what felt futuristic just months ago quickly becomes everyday reality. With something so new — and so powerful — it’s natural for families and educators alike to feel a sense of curiosity mixed with caution. Questions around ethics, boundaries, wellbeing and long-term impact are no longer theoretical; they’re part of daily conversations in schools and homes around the world.
That sense of cautious curiosity is exactly why Nord Anglia International School Dubai recently welcomed Professor Rose Luckin, one of the world’s leading experts in artificial intelligence in education, to campus. Her visit created space for meaningful dialogue, not about chasing technology, but about understanding it, questioning it and ensuring it serves learning rather than replacing it.
Students Growing Up in an AI-Driven World
Today’s students are growing up alongside powerful technologies that didn’t exist just a few years ago. Tools powered by AI can generate answers instantly, personalise content and automate tasks, thus offering huge potential but also new challenges.
Professor Luckin, who has spent over 30 years researching AI, learning sciences and digital education, works closely with governments and global education systems to ensure AI enhances learning rather than replacing it. Her voice matters now because, as she openly shared, even the developers of today’s most advanced AI models don’t fully understand what they will be capable of next.
AI Is Already in the Classroom
At NAS Dubai, AI is not treated as a trend or a shortcut. It’s approached as a tool that requires understanding, boundaries and intentional teaching.
During her visit, Professor Luckin joined students and staff for:
- Secondary student Q&A forums
- A student-led podcast hosted by Sixth Form
- An educator-led podcast exploring AI, ethics and digital wellbeing
These conversations reflected concerns many parents recognise: screen dependency, bias, regulation and how much support is too much. According to UNESCO and OECD research, students benefit most from AI when schools actively teach critical thinking, digital literacy and ethical awareness rather than leaving young people to navigate these tools alone.
When Technology Replaces Thinking
A central risk Professor Luckin highlighted is cognitive offloading, relying on AI to do the thinking for us.
Her message to students was clear: AI is not magic. Real learning still requires what she described as “strenuous mental effort”, the habits of questioning, reflecting and making meaning. Without this, technology can weaken understanding rather than strengthen it.
Students engaged deeply with this idea:
“It made me more mindful about how I use AI in my education.” — Alp, Student
“We learnt about both the benefits and risks and how AI can help us progress our understanding of the world.” — Huxley, Student
Teaching AI with Purpose, Not Fear
Rather than avoiding AI, NAS Dubai is committed to teaching students how to use it well and with purpose, balance and responsibility.
“Cautious optimism is the way forward,” Professor Luckin shared, a message that resonated strongly with both students and staff.
“This conversation helped address real parental concerns around boundaries, dependency and wellbeing,” reflected Tara, Head of Primary. “It reinforced that AI should enhance learning, not replace human connection.”
This approach aligns with global research showing that students thrive when technology is framed as a support for learning and not a substitute for thinking.
Why This Matters for Families
This matters because today’s children won’t just use AI, but they’ll live and work alongside it. Schools have a responsibility to help students develop digital confidence, ethical judgement and critical thinking, skills that universities and employers increasingly value.
Professor Luckin’s visit wasn’t just a one-day event. It was part of a long-term commitment to future-ready education at NAS Dubai. One that prepares students not only to succeed academically but also to navigate complexity with confidence.
Continue the Conversation
Families are invited to explore these discussions further through our NAS Dubai podcasts:
Teacher-led episode:
Student-led episode:
These conversations sit at the heart of how we prepare students for the future. We’d love to show you how our programmes and community can help your child thrive. Connect with our friendly admissions team at admissions@nasdubai.ae or call us on +971 4 2199 999.
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