The Role of AI in Education and the Workforce: Insights from Dr. Nasreen Rahim

Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape how we learn, work, and prepare for the future. During a recent Tech Talk hosted by the Bay Area Community College Consortium, Dr. Nasreen Rahim—faculty member and EdTech leader at Evergreen Valley College—joined Olivia Herriford to explore how AI is transforming student learning and career readiness.

AI: Not Replacing, But Transforming Jobs

Dr. Rahim opened with an important reassurance: AI is not eliminating jobs—it’s transforming them.

“Routine tasks are being automated, freeing up time for creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking,” she explained. “New roles like AI trainers and prompt engineers are emerging, while traditional careers are integrating AI as a productivity tool.”

In short, students don’t need to fear job loss due to AI—they need to develop AI literacy just as they once needed basic computer skills.

Core Skills for a Competitive Future

To stay competitive in the AI-driven job market, Dr. Rahim emphasized that students need a combination of technical fluency and human strengths:

• AI literacy – Understanding what AI is (and isn’t)
• Prompt engineering – Guiding tools effectively
• Field-specific applications – AI in nursing, business, etc.
• Data and ethical literacy – Interpreting numbers and recognizing bias
• Human strengths – Critical thinking, creativity, empathy

“These are things AI can’t replicate,” she added. “And at community colleges, we have the flexibility to teach them through project-based, hands-on learning.”

AI as a Learning Companion

Dr. Rahim encourages students to think of AI as a study buddy.

“Students can ask AI to explain tough concepts in fun, relatable ways—like comparing insulin resistance to a video game,” she said. “It’s a way to brainstorm ideas, test understanding, and grow.”

But she cautions against overreliance: “Use AI like training wheels. Helpful at first, but independence matters.”

Essential AI Tools for Students

She shared a handful of impactful tools students are already using:

• Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude – Content support and simplification
• DALL·E, Adobe Firefly – Visual creation and literacy
• Khanmigo, Alex – Personalized learning assistance
• Labs Auto AI, DeepL – Clarity and access for non-native speakers

These tools support diverse learners, from ESL students to career changers, helping them build confidence in an AI-enhanced world.

Navigating Ethical AI Use

Dr. Rahim underscored that AI isn’t neutral—it reflects the data it’s trained on, which often includes bias.

“We teach students to ask: Who trained the AI? Whose voices are missing? Who benefits and who’s left out?”

Digital literacy now includes ethical and analytical awareness. Students also learn to verify AI-generated content using a triangulation method—fact-checking with at least two trusted sources and spotting red flags like vague details or fake organizations.

A Call to Educators

Community colleges are uniquely positioned to lead the way. At Evergreen Valley College, faculty development is central to AI integration.

“We offer workshops, flex day sessions, and an online teaching and educational technology certificate,” Dr. Rahim said. “Faculty are becoming more confident and excited to bring AI into the classroom.”

Evergreen is now launching a Digital Literacy Certificate to give students essential workplace-ready AI skills.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Digital Literacy

As AI continues to evolve, Dr. Rahim sees education shifting from tool-based training to conceptual adaptability.

“It’s no longer just about where the button is,” she said. “Students must learn how to evaluate content, identify synthetic media, and collaborate with AI tools across all disciplines.”

From healthcare to automotive to digital arts, AI is becoming a shared language in every field.

Final Thoughts: Take One Step

Dr. Rahim wrapped up with a powerful message for those still unsure about AI:

“Start small. Use AI for low-risk tasks like brainstorming or drafting. Learn with others—create AI learning circles. You don’t need to be an expert overnight.”

And for students?

“Be curious, not intimidated. Learn with others, ask questions, and develop skills that blend AI fluency with human insight.”

At Evergreen Valley College, Dr. Rahim and her team are ensuring that future is inclusive, empowering, and full of opportunity for all.