English and AI Skills

English and AI Skills

Janpha Thadphoothon

Hello, I’m Janpha Thadphoothon, a professional English language teacher and author. Today, we are on the cusp of a new frontier of cooperation, one that transcends the traditional human-to-human collaboration and opens doors to human-AI partnerships. My goal here is to highlight that English skills and AI skills are closely connected, with English serving as a crucial component of AI competence. In other words, if English is your strength, you're already halfway to thriving in the digital age.

Working with AI 

In the past, successful collaboration was built on interpersonal skills among humans. Now, with the rise of artificial intelligence, it has become crucial to equip ourselves with the skills needed to work effectively alongside these automated systems. This is especially relevant for Thai university students who will soon navigate a world where human-AI cooperation is routine.

Why Thai University Students Need English and AI Skills

AI is advancing rapidly in understanding language and responding to our needs, yet it requires a solid foundation in English to unlock its full potential. Thai students, in particular, need robust English language skills to communicate with AI systems that largely operate in English and to access global information. English proficiency allows students to better understand and control these technologies, enhancing their capabilities to use AI for research, data analysis, and communication.

Key Skills for Working with AI Agents

To collaborate with AI effectively, students need to develop both technical and soft skills. Technical skills include understanding basic principles of machine learning, data analysis, and prompt engineering — skills that enable them to interact with AI agents in a way that maximizes their utility. Soft skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, are equally important, as they help students evaluate AI outputs critically and use them effectively in their studies and future careers.

Mindset and Attitudes Needed

Beyond technical proficiency, the mindset toward AI is equally significant. Thai students need to adopt an open-minded and adaptable approach, understanding that AI is a tool, not a threat. Embracing curiosity and a willingness to learn is vital, as AI technologies continuously evolve. The ability to question, evaluate, and adapt to new AI tools will allow students to stay current in a fast-changing landscape.

For Thailand to thrive in this age of AI, there is an urgent need to integrate these skills into education. While other countries are making strides in AI-driven education, Thailand lags due to limited access and a lack of focus on AI-readiness in curricula. Thai universities must prioritize English and digital skills, preparing students not just for the present but for the future. 

We need to take bold steps to ensure that our education system fully embraces AI, giving Thai students the skills and confidence to work alongside AI agents. Only by addressing these issues can Thailand harness the transformative potential of AI and secure a stronger position in the global economy.

Illustrated by Gemini (Dated 13 Nov 2024)