OFFSTONE JUNE EDITION 2025

46 and reshaping the dynamics of education. However, not all users can navigate or critically assess these tools. This evolving landscape demands scrutiny, especially in light of the second digital divide, which highlights disparities in digital literacy rather than mere access. As AI becomes increasingly entrenched in pedagogical strategies, assessing its implications for communication in education is crucial. AI in Education and the New Communication Paradigm AI technologies—from chatbots and automated grading systems to personalised learning algorithms—are reshaping educational communication. These tools are designed to increase efficiency, provide instant feedback, and tailor content to individual learners. However, their growing presence also shifts communication from human-centred dialogue to machine-mediated interactions. This shift has profound implications. First, it changes the pedagogical relationship. Traditional teacher-student exchanges, which rely on nuance, empathy, and adaptability, are being replaced or supplemented by AI-driven platforms that interpret student inputs through algorithms. While such systems can analyse performance patterns and offer timely feedback, they often fail to understand the emotional or cultural context of a student’s response, potentially leading to miscommunication or alienation. The Qur’an repeatedly emphasises the importance of justice and equality in the dissemination of knowledge: "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" (Qur’an 39:9). This rhetorical question underscores the value placed on access to knowledge, regardless of status or geography. When educational systems fail to bridge the second digital divide, they contradict the Islamic principle of educational equity. Second, the language used by AI can create barriers. While grammatically correct, AI- generated content may lack clarity, contextual relevance, or sensitivity to diverse learning needs. Moreover, over-reliance on AI for communication can weaken students' critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills, as they become accustomed to receiving information passively rather than engaging in active dialogue. From an Islamic viewpoint, the Qur’an promotes the pursuit of knowledge with wisdom and empathy: "Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best" (Qur’an 16:125). This verse emphasises the need for compassion and understanding in teaching—qualities that AI, in its current state, often cannot emulate. Finally, the ethical dimensions of AI in educational communication are concerning. Algorithms may replicate biases embedded in their training data, leading to unfair treatment of specific student groups. Additionally, students may be unaware they are interacting with machines, undermining the transparency and trust essential to the educational process.