The Orchid School Hosts Enrichment Programme: “Your Words Still Matter”
In an age where AI is revolutionizing the world, particularly in creative and artistic fields, many aspiring writers and artists are left wondering: Are there any careers left for us? This question was addressed head-on in a recent enrichment programme titled “Your Words Still Matter,” conducted by Ms. Rasika Wadodkar at The Orchid School on Tuesday, August 20th, 2024.
The workshop was designed as a language enhancement session, offering students valuable insights into how AI and creative thinking can be harmonized to thrive in the coming generations. Ms. Wadodkar emphasized that while AI is a powerful tool—capable of generating text, analyzing language, editing, proofreading, and ensuring compliance—it does not negate the necessity of human language skills.
Students were encouraged to consider language from a broader perspective. Language, as Ms. Wadodkar pointed out, transcends boundaries, fosters deeper understanding, upholds creativity and originality, facilitates ethical analysis, aids in navigating ambiguity, and most importantly, preserves cultural awareness. These are aspects of language that AI cannot fully replace. While AI can support these functions, it cannot completely conceal the human element that language brings to our lives.
The session highlighted that although AI has made significant inroads into various industries, this should be viewed positively. The constant evolution of AI tools has given rise to new job opportunities, such as prompt engineering. Traditional roles like journalism and content writing remain vital, with editing and proofreading gaining even more importance due to the potential biases inherent in AI- generated content. Moreover, careers in public relations continue to thrive as companies large and small recognize the need to craft and manage their public image—something that requires a human touch.
Ms. Wadodkar advised students on how to future-proof themselves in this AI-driven world. She encouraged them to use AI tools to enhance their education, research, vocabulary, and versatility, but also stressed the importance of brainstorming and creating the first drafts of projects without AI’s influence. Her message was clear: Befriend AI, but do not surrender to it. The future holds abundant opportunities for those who master the basics, read and write extensively, maintain a repository of ideas, and stay informed.
The workshop left a lasting impact on the students, providing them with a nuanced understanding of the relationship between syntax and semantics in a world increasingly shaped by technology. It was an insightful session that reinforced the enduring value of language and creativity in the face of AI advancements.
