ChatGPT is the bane of many teachers’ existence. Since its rise to fame in 2022, use of the Generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot has been a contentious issue in educational environments. But what does this chatbot really do?
ChatGPT is a form of generative AI: a technological program that uses generative models to produce text, photos, videos, or other forms of data. Students can utilize this software to answer questions, explain new concepts, or brainstorm ideas.
Academic institutions have differing policies regarding the use of this generative technology. Many schools outright ban the usage of such platforms, while others permit its use as long as it is cited as a source. The reality is that Generative AI has countless benefits for youths in education, significantly outweighing any of its temporary concerns.
It’s important to note that AI is the force of the future. According to the Harvard Graduate School of Education, artificial intelligence is here to stay. “As the technology evolves, AI will only become more prominent in our everyday interactions, shaping everything from education to the workforce.”
There is no point in hiding from and limiting the use of a technology that is only bound to grow larger and larger every year. Rather, learning to reap its benefits would be more sensible, from personalization to workforce readiness.
Generative AI has been proven to increase student productivity and academic performance. According to the World Economic Forum, AI could support students when needed. “AI models can adapt to students’ individual learning styles and paces, offering real-time feedback that helps struggling students while challenging advanced learners.”
AI is similar to a tutor, aiding in teaching difficult concepts to students, bolstering creativity and improving test scores.
Seneca Valley senior Hira Zaman explains how AI has supported her school experience. “AI has improved my academic journey because it’s given me a resource to use when my professors aren’t able to meet my academic needs. It’s also helped me strengthen the ideas I come up with and narrow down the subject areas I should focus on improving more,” Zaman said.
Generative AI also makes quality education more accessible, granting helpful resources to all people regardless of economic status or geographic location. UNICEF has used personalized generative models to support those in countries without access to learning material. Generated digital classwork and textbooks can be downloaded and used offline, critical for those who may not have access to the internet.
Implementing and encouraging the use of digital AI in schools allows students to prepare for their future in the workforce.
The use of AI in the workforce is skyrocketing. According to research completed by the National University, 77% of companies are either using or exploring the use of AI in their businesses, and 83% of companies claim that AI is their top priority.
As job markets evolve, digital literacy becomes essential. The National Skills Coalition emphasizes the importance of technological competence. “92% of jobs in the US labor force require digital skills.” This new need for technology underscores the necessity of integrating AI literacy into education and the development of critical technological skills that are increasingly demanded by employers.
The aim of an education should be preparation for the real world, and being able to use and understand newfound technologies like Generative AI is fundamental.
While teachers’ concerns about plagiarism may ring true, society should stop viewing generative AI systems as cheating websites. In reality, this technology serves as a resource akin to search engines such as Google. Students should be able to cite ChatGPT as a source rather than face consequences for its use.
It’s time society wield’s the weapon that is AI instead of shying away from it.
Written by Noor Mahmoud
Photo courtesy of Pexels