China’s AI Tutoring Apps Threaten US Education As Government Fails To Act

The US education system faces a growing threat as Chinese-owned AI tutoring apps dominate the market, raising concerns about foreign influence and the potential for students to delegate their learning to artificial intelligence. Question AI and Gauth, owned by Chinese companies Zuoyebang and ByteDance, respectively, have emerged as the two most popular AI homework helpers in the US as of May.

These apps offer personalized assistance to students by leveraging large language models like ChatGPT, providing a more affordable and convenient alternative to traditional tutoring methods. However, their reliance on AI has raised questions about the accuracy of the information provided and the risk of students simply outsourcing their homework without actually learning.

The success of Chinese AI tutoring apps in the US market is the result of a concerted effort by Chinese companies to expand overseas following China’s crackdown on its private tutoring sector in 2021. As these apps gain popularity, educators are grappling with how to incorporate this technology into the learning process while ensuring students develop critical thinking skills.

The US government’s apparent inaction in advancing AI education and protecting student data from potential foreign influence has raised alarm among experts. As the AI education landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for policymakers and educators to work together to address these challenges and ensure that American students receive a high-quality education in the age of artificial intelligence.