Core Viewpoint - The recent update of Alibaba's Qianwen app has sparked a significant debate about the role of AI in education, highlighting both positive feedback from parents and negative reactions from students [1][2][5]. Group 1: AI in Education - The Qianwen app offers features like photo search for exam questions and AI-generated practice exercises, which some parents view as a valuable educational tool [1][5]. - A large number of students have expressed frustration with the app, feeling overwhelmed by the additional exercises it generates [2][6]. - The controversy has led to a broader societal discussion about whether children should use AI for learning [5][6]. Group 2: Educational Conference - Qianwen organized a seminar titled "Can Children Use AI?" featuring prominent education experts and scholars [5][6]. - The seminar addressed concerns about whether reliance on AI could hinder children's learning capabilities, with some experts arguing that traditional education methods may not be effective in the AI era [6][11]. Group 3: Changing Definitions of Intelligence - Experts suggest that the definition of "intelligence" is evolving in the AI age, as AI can perform tasks like calculation and memorization more efficiently than humans [13][19]. - The focus should shift from rote learning to understanding the logic behind AI-generated solutions, promoting a new learning approach termed "downhill learning" [15][19]. Group 4: Teacher's Role and AI Limitations - While AI can assist in knowledge transfer, it lacks the emotional connection and personal touch that human teachers provide [20][21]. - Teachers are seen as essential for addressing students' emotional needs and fostering personal growth, which AI cannot replicate [21][23]. Group 5: Equity and Standardization in Education - AI tools like Qianwen are democratizing access to educational resources, but there are concerns about potential standardization and mediocrity in learning outcomes [23][25]. - The future of education may require a shift towards holistic learning that encompasses physical and emotional development, rather than solely academic performance [25][27]. Group 6: Future Considerations - The discussion around whether children should use AI is becoming less relevant as AI becomes integrated into daily life [28][30]. - The focus should be on how to effectively utilize AI as a supportive tool in education, rather than allowing it to replace critical thinking and personal engagement [30][31].