BETONG: A more integrated approach across all subjects has been suggested rather than dedicating a new subject solely to artificial intelligence (AI) in the school curriculum by 2027.
“Instead of introducing the subject of AI, it would be better if AI elements were integrated across all subjects in both primary and secondary schools,” said Spaoh Islamic Charitable Trust (LAKIS) chairman Dr. Abang Ismail Abang Julhi on the Ministry of Education (MoE)’s initiative to introduce AI in the New and Digital Technology subjects recently.
He believed this method will enhance students’ ability to connect AI technologies with the disciplines being taught, thereby fostering a deeper understanding and application of AI across various fields.
Dr. Abang Ismail advocated for a review of the current plan, favouring an approach that incorporates AI into the broader educational journey, from primary through to tertiary education.
“I think it is more appropriate for AI to cross all subjects offered in primary and secondary schools and be preserved to the level of institutes of higher learning or Institute of Teacher Education (IPG),” said the academician.
Highlighting the potential for AI to revolutionise teaching methodologies, Dr. Abang Ismail pointed out that adopting Project Based Learning, Digital Based Learning, Cooperative Learning, and other contemporary educational strategies could greatly benefit both students and teachers.
“I am optimistic that not only will students benefit from AI, but teachers will also gain high skills and knowledge,” he added.
Dr. Abang Ismail also suggested that AI components could enhance existing subjects by adding digital components tailored to the needs of today’s generation. However, he expressed reservations about introducing AI to students as young as seven to nine years old, questioning their readiness to grasp such advanced technology.
“It is better that students are empowered with the basic skills of 3M (writing, reading, and counting) including studying the Quran for Muslims,” he said.
The call for a curriculum re-evaluation comes in the wake of Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek’s announcement that AI basics will be taught to primary students by 2027, aiming to equip them with digital fluency as one of seven key competencies.
