Machine Learning: The "Next Big Thing" in Education Getting Smart

Artificial intelligence (AI), in particular the field of machine learning, is touted as the "next big thing" according to Silicon Valley pundits. AI could be the key technology used to create cars that drive themselves or computers that diagnose some diseases better than doctors can. Backing up, though, let's take a moment to look at what exactly machine learning is. To put it simply, it's a computer that can program itself, usually by looking at feedback from its results. How is this important for education?