img

Blog Details

img
Smart Building Design and Engineering

Lessons from Sir Rowell Marquina: Insights on IT Education and AI in the Classroom

Administration / 9 Feb, 2025


I recently had the privilege of speaking with Sir Rowell Marquina, a seasoned IT educator with over 20 years of experience. Currently a lecturer at PUP Binan Campus, Sir Rowell specializes in Information Assurance, Application Development, Web Design, and Emerging Technologies. He is also a Google Certified Educator, Microsoft Certified Educator, and a ViewSonic Philippines Ambassador. Our conversation was a treasure trove of insights about the challenges and opportunities in IT education, the role of AI in the classroom, and how teachers can adapt to the rapid pace of technological advancements.

Sir Rowell's Journey as an IT Educator

Sir Rowell's journey into the world of education began with a deep admiration for his father, who was also a teacher. Growing up in a classroom environment, he witnessed firsthand the respect and admiration his father received from students. This inspired him to pursue a career in teaching, despite the lucrative opportunities available in the IT industry. Over the years, he has taught in various institutions, including high schools and colleges, before settling at PUP Binan Campus in 2023.

What sets Sir Rowell apart is his ability to bring real-world industry experience into the classroom.
Having worked in the IT industry, he shares practical insights with his students, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their careers. His teaching philosophy is rooted in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that his students are well-equipped for the workforce.

The Role of AI in Education

One of the most compelling parts of our conversation was Sir Rowell's perspective on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. While many educators view AI with skepticism, fearing it might replace traditional teaching methods, Sir Rowell sees it as a powerful tool to enhance learning. He believes that AI can help teachers save time on administrative tasks, such as creating quizzes and lesson plans, allowing them to focus more on building relationships with students and improving their teaching strategies.

Sir Rowell shared several examples of how AI tools like ChatGPT, Brisk, and Gemini can be integrated into the classroom.
For instance, he demonstrated how Brisk can generate a 20-item quiz on complex topics like intermolecular forces in just five seconds. This not only saves time but also ensures that the questions are aligned with higher-order thinking skills. However, he emphasized the importance of reviewing AI-generated content to ensure its accuracy and relevance.



Adapting to Technological Advancements

As technology continues to evolve, Sir Rowell highlighted the need for educators to adapt and upskill themselves. He pointed out that students today are digital natives, growing up in an environment where technology is an integral part of their lives. To effectively engage with these students, teachers must embrace new tools and methodologies.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of mindset.
Sir Rowell likened AI to a washing machine—a tool designed to make life easier, not to replace human effort. He encouraged teachers to view AI as an ally rather than a threat, using it to enhance their teaching methods and free up time for more meaningful interactions with students.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the many benefits of AI, Sir Rowell acknowledged the challenges it presents. One of the primary concerns is the potential for misuse, such as students using AI to generate essays or complete assignments without truly understanding the material. To address this, he suggested incorporating activities that require personal input, such as relating topics to personal experiences or providing feedback on AI-generated content.

Another challenge is the digital divide, particularly in regions with limited internet access.
Sir Rowell emphasized the need for government intervention to bridge this gap, ensuring that all students and teachers have access to the tools and resources they need. He also highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the ethical use of AI and providing training for educators to maximize its potential.

The Human Element in Teaching

While AI offers numerous advantages, Sir Rowell firmly believes that it can never replace the human element in teaching. He shared a powerful example from one of his seminars, where he demonstrated the concept of social engineering by interacting with a seasoned teacher. This hands-on approach not only made the lesson more engaging but also highlighted the unique value that human teachers bring to the classroom.

According to Sir Rowell, the key to staying relevant as an educator is to continuously develop skills that AI cannot replicate.
These include emotional intelligence, humor, and the ability to build meaningful relationships with students. By focusing on these strengths, teachers can ensure that they remain indispensable, even in an AI-driven world.

Conclusion

My conversation with Sir Rowell Marquina was both enlightening and inspiring. His insights into the evolving landscape of education and technology underscored the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the human touch. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, his advice serves as a valuable guide for educators striving to make a lasting impact in their students' lives.

In a world where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, Sir Rowell's message is clear: embrace change, leverage tools like AI to enhance your teaching, and never lose sight of the human element that makes education truly transformative.


To watch the full video here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBrAF-8R6EI

0 comments