Ai in Education and the digital divide

Artificial intelligence is quickly woven into the fabric of student life. Decision making and studying with AI Tools: From writing assignments to summarising complex readings. What used to take hours of research now happens in seconds. But under this layer of technological ease is a more troubling question underneath: Who actually gets access to these academic leg-ups?

At many universities across the globe, students are already learning to use AI responsibly in their studies. Some institutions even add AI literacy to their curriculum. But in countries like Bangladesh, the reality is much less lopsided. The availability of technology has always affected access to education. AI today may be adding a new layer of inequality in the education system.

Urban learners or those in well-resourced institutions are often at an advantage with internet access, stronger digital skills and more exposure to ERGs. They are more likely to try AI tools, figure out how best to use them, and incorporate them into their schoolwork. Many students from rural backgrounds or under-resourced universities are still struggling, however, with basic digital access. They do not always have access to reliable internet connections, modern devices or proper digital training.

Consequently, a silent schism may be developing behind classroom walls. Every day some students learn to use intelligent technologies; others hardly know these tools exist and are unsure how they work. The gap is not just a technological one; it is also an educational and social one.

Language is another important factor. Most AI platforms work better in English. Students already comfortable with English-language academic resources are better positioned to benefit from these tools. This advantage might leave those who are less certain of their English behind. This imbalance poses an important question for the future of education. If AI becomes a core learning tool, will students who have no access to it slowly lag behind? Education has always been a means to social mobility. But if benefits from technology end up accruing primarily to already privileged groups, the system is more likely to amplify inequality than decrease it.

That doesn’t mean AI is bad for education. Indeed, it holds tremendous promise. AI helps students grasp challenging concepts, arrange research material and advance writing skills. When used responsibly, it can transform into a powerful academic assistant.” The challenge is to ensure that its benefits are broadly shared.

Universities and policymakers need to start taking AI literacy seriously. They need guidance not just on how to use AI tools themselves, but also how to evaluate information, avoid over-reliance and ask questions that promote academic honesty.

Increasing access to the Internet is just as critical.” Without access to reliable internet, appropriate training, and systemic support from institutions, a large number of students will continue to be left off the evolutionary ladder on this new educational landscape. Technology should not exacerbate educational inequity. Rather, it ought to help narrow existing gaps. The future of learning already has artificial intelligence pricing its tickets. The real question is whether this future will be inclusive — or whether it will stealthily construct a new digital divide within our classrooms.