A New Education Model in San Francisco Is Testing Artificial Intelligence as a Replacement for Teachers
A private school in San Francisco has launched a radical transformation in education by placing artificial intelligence (AI) at the centre of its curriculum. The school, called Alpha, has eliminated traditional class bells, grading systems, and even teachers, moving entirely to an AI-supported learning model.
At Alpha, students spend only two hours a day on core subjects, all delivered through AI applications. According to the school, these systems do not operate as chatbots; instead, they use visual models to analyse students’ learning processes and guide them towards more effective learning. The remainder of the day is devoted to practical life skills and personal interest projects.
Carson Lehmann, one of Alpha’s lead mentors, argues that education has been slow to keep pace with innovation. “I want students to see that they are capable of creating things. You don’t need a crazy computer science degree to do that,” he says.
However, some educators remain cautious about this model. Cassondra Curiel, president of the United Educators of San Francisco, warns that “the unregulated and insufficiently reviewed use of artificial intelligence could have serious and negative impacts on students.”