Page 59 - EH75

F ORUM FORUM | E AS TERN HORIZ ON 5
NEWS | EASTERN HORIZON 577

Thoughtfully applied, these technologies preserve and • Global platforms broaden perspectives, while AI and
expand Dharma teachings worldwide. data analytics tailor education to individual needs.
• However, the reliance on technology risks eroding

Ming Yi: AI and machine learning can be harnessed discipline and equity due to the digital divide.
to support the spread of Dharma practices in several • The key is balancing tech integration with
impactful ways. Firstly, they can facilitate personalized preserving the human connection essential for
meditation and mindfulness experiences through effective education and fostering mutual respect in
tailored apps that adapt to individual needs and evolving dynamics.
preferences. AI-driven platforms can provide users
with guided meditations, teachings, and reminders, Indeed, I agree that despite the possibilities of enhanced
helping them maintain consistent practice. Additionally, intellectual learning and the availability of vast sources
machine learning algorithms can analyze user data to of information, the personal human element is missing.
recommend relevant Dharma resources, such as texts These manifold benefits can not replace the connectivity
or community events. Virtual reality (VR) experiences and “vibes” of the living presence of a spirituality
can immerse individuals in Buddhist teachings and advanced human being. Learning by example can be
environments, making practices more accessible. Finally, more impactful and life-transforming than by mere
AI can enhance online communities by connecting intellectual understanding.
practitioners, fostering discussions, and sharing insights,
thereby broadening the reach and engagement. Ming Yi: Technology is reshaping teacher-student
relationships by fostering greater accessibility and
Tenzin Tsepal: AI can help us digest and summarize a communication, but it also presents challenges
Dharma text or a genre of texts with amazing speed. We from a Buddhist perspective. The ease of digital
can ask AI Dharma questions, but since it is not always interaction can enhance connection, allowing teachers
accurate and may be biased, it’s much better to attend to provide support beyond traditional classroom
teachings in person where we can ask questions to boundaries. However, this shift may encourage a more
dispel doubts. transactional dynamic, potentially undermining the
mindfulness and presence that are vital in education.
AI can generate images of Buddhas, thangkas, Buddhism emphasizes compassion and awareness in
Samantabhadra’s offerings, and pure lands for practice. relationships. When technology becomes the primary
But the Buddha and all the great sages of the past mode of interaction, the depth of personal connection
attained high realizations, liberation, and full awakening can diminish. Teachers and students might miss
without depending on AI. opportunities for genuine engagement, empathy, and
mutual growth. Balancing technology with mindful
How do you think technology is changing the practices can help maintain the essential qualities
dynamics of teacher-student relationships? of respect and understanding, fostering a more

harmonious learning environment that aligns with
Aggacitta: This question is also beyond the scope of my Buddhist values.
expertise, so here is ChatGpt’s succinct answer:
Tenzin Tsepal: Technology, especially digital
• Technology is transforming teacher-student communication, has opened access to so many Dharma

relationships by shifting teachers’ roles from teachings and teachers. However, with teachings being
knowledge providers to facilitators, enabling self- so readily available, people may assume that we don’t
directed and personalized learning. need a teacher-student relationship. This is a mistake.
• Constant connectivity fosters collaboration but Watching teachings on a digital device is very different
challenges traditional authority and boundaries. than receiving live teachings and developing a teacher-
student relationship with a living teacher over many