TEDx RDFIS Youth explores AI's transformative power

RDF International School (RDFIS) hosted the inaugural TEDx RDFIS Youthon Friday, delving into the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on human civilization.

Themed “Reimagined,”the event facilitated an“in-depth dialogue between technology and the humanities,” attracting a diverse audience eager to explore the AI era’s possibilities and challenges.

The TEDx event featured seven distinguished keynote speakers from various industries, fields, and age groups, each offering unique insights into the AI landscape.

A dance performance by Judy Wang. Photos courtesy of RDFIS

Dr. Huang Yu, asemiconductor scientistat Huawei, kicked off the discussions by highlighting AI’s potential to revolutionize scientific research. He emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to enhance and accelerate research processes, ultimately improving efficiency and outcomes.

Emily Sun gives a speech about AI and music.

Emily Sun, an 11thgrader at RDFIS, provided a fascinating perspective on AI’s influence on music. She argued that while AI can process data and predict melodies, the essence of creativity and meaning remains a human endeavor.“AI canprocess data, but we create meaning. It can predict melodies, but we infuse them with soul,”she remarked.

Arsene Keruburundi, an AP psychology teacher at RDFIS, underscored the role of AI in education and creativity. He believes that AI, as a neutral tool, can aid in organizing thoughts, guiding critical thinking, and inspiring artistic creation. However, he cautioned that the true value of AI lies in how humans harness it.

Audrey Li and Ashley Wang, two seventh-grade students at Shenzhen Yadi School, posed a thought-provoking question: Should AI continue to evolve within the existing technological framework or should it break free to achieve leapfrog development?

Andrea Dublar, a ninth-grade student at RDFIS, presented a case study on the AI continuation of the Harry Potter series. Her analysis revealed the potential impact of algorithms on literary originality and the collaborative possibilities between AI and human creativity.

Thea Xuan, another ninth-grade student at RDFIS, addressed the educational implications of AI. She advocated for using data to bridge the education gap and promote resource equality. In her speech, Xuan deconstructed the disruptive path of AI in education, focusing on timeliness, adaptability, and eternity, and advocated for the technological empowerment of education.

A group photo of all the participants.