Editor’s Note: This article is based on an interview with Stéphane Paquet, AI Project Lead at Champlain College Saint-Lambert and AI Certificate Coordinator. The responses have been summarized for clarity and brevity and are not word-for-word reproductions of the original conversation. The ideas reflect the speaker’s perspective as of the time of the interview.
Question:
Education and industry are closely connected—in fact, much of what we learn in college is shaped by industry needs.
For example, in my Computer Science Technology program, we focus heavily on Java because it’s in high demand across the job market.
As industries themselves are now being reshaped by AI, how do you think the education system should—or will—adapt to keep pace with these changes? Should we expect shifts not just in what we teach, but also in how we teach?
Answer:
That’s a really important question.
Every time a new tool arrives—like the internet or personal computers—I expect education to change drastically. But today, our classrooms still look the same: a board, desks, and a teacher at the front.
The education system is slow to change. One key reason? Scalability. Innovative teaching strategies that would better align with modern tools are difficult to apply in a class of 40 students. Teachers may want to innovate—but they don’t always have the time, structure, or resources to do so.
AI as an Opportunity—If We Let It Be
The AI revolution could be a turning point.
Students now have tools that can generate essays and code. So maybe it’s time we stop putting all our emphasis on the final product and instead focus on the thinking that leads up to it.
We should encourage:
• Reflection before production
• Visible thinking (questions, errors, revisions)
• Feedback loops (from peers, teachers, and AI tools)
This shift means valuing the messiness of learning over polished perfection.
But There’s a Problem: Time and Pressure
Students don’t have time. They often work under pressure and prioritize productivity over deep learning.
They wait until the last minute, open their agenda, see what’s due tomorrow—and just get it done. It’s not that they don’t care. They’re balancing many courses and responsibilities. Productivity becomes survival.
Why We Need “Slow Teaching”
That’s why teachers must help students slow down.
We need to:
• Break down projects into smaller steps
• Allow multiple drafts and submissions
• Focus on initial, imperfect ideas
• Shift our feedback toward process, not just product
This takes time. It’s difficult. But it’s essential—especially now that AI tools can instantly generate clean-looking outputs.
Will It Happen?
I’m hopeful—but realistic.
The system still emphasizes grades and fast performance. We still teach to standardized tests like the English Exit Exam, where students must write a full essay in a few hours. There’s little time or space for process.
In five years, I might look back and see very little change. Not because we didn’t care, but because systemic change is slow.
Still, if we start valuing process now, AI could help us reimagine learning for the better.
About the Expert: Stéphane Paquet is an experienced educator and AI consultant with over 20 years of teaching experience. Currently serving as the AI Project Lead at Champlain College Saint-Lambert, he focuses on supporting teachers and students in integrating generative AI tools into education. His areas of expertise include e-learning, educational media design, and the development of innovative pedagogical strategies.
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