The AI-powered private school chain Alpha School, which uses software to teach students, has faced criticism from parents and former employees who claim that the system is causing harm to children. The company's focus on using technology to accelerate academic mastery and create a "productive environment" for students has led some to question whether it prioritizes numbers and coding over social development and human interaction.
According to reports, some parents have had their children stuck in software programs for hours at a time, with the system sending videos of their children taken from the computer's webcam. Others have reported that the school is using surveillance technology to monitor students' online activity.
Alpha School has responded to these allegations by saying that they prioritize a safe and productive environment for students and that any claims of harm or mistreatment are "categorically and demonstrably false." However, some critics argue that the company's focus on technology over human interaction is concerning and may be detrimental to children's well-being.
The controversy surrounding Alpha School highlights the need for parents and policymakers to carefully consider the role of technology in education and ensure that it serves the needs of students rather than the interests of corporations.
According to reports, some parents have had their children stuck in software programs for hours at a time, with the system sending videos of their children taken from the computer's webcam. Others have reported that the school is using surveillance technology to monitor students' online activity.
Alpha School has responded to these allegations by saying that they prioritize a safe and productive environment for students and that any claims of harm or mistreatment are "categorically and demonstrably false." However, some critics argue that the company's focus on technology over human interaction is concerning and may be detrimental to children's well-being.
The controversy surrounding Alpha School highlights the need for parents and policymakers to carefully consider the role of technology in education and ensure that it serves the needs of students rather than the interests of corporations.