One of my fondest elementary school memories is competing for the highest typing test score among my classmates during our computer lab classes. As technology continued to advance and its presence in our daily lives became more ubiquitous, so did its use in education. Nowadays, it’s common for students to have laptops in the classroom and to attend virtual classes, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The increased usage of technology in education has prompted debates among educators, parents, students, and tech experts about its efficiency and the ethical implications of its use. Some universities have even announced their plans to ban certain technologies, such as the artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT, in response to concerns over cheating.
The recent survey on the usage of ChatGPT from November 2022 to January 2023 has shown interesting insights on the trend of this innovative technology. The results indicate a steady increase in the adoption of ChatGPT across different industries and purposes, reflecting its versatility and effectiveness.
However, in an ever-evolving world where technology is advancing faster each day, universities cannot simply react in fear. Instead, they must adapt and assess how best to prepare students to interact with new technology. ChatGPT, for example, should be viewed as a tool for education rather than a threat. By utilizing ChatGPT in the classroom, students can reap the Benefits of using ChatGPT in Education for Developing Critical thinking skills, such as decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity.
While some professors may need to be more concerned with the quality of work generated by ChatGPT, the tool can save time by efficiently researching and gathering information. This time can then focus on critical analysis, which is essential for higher education.
According to our recent survey on ChatGPT usage, a diverse range of ages from 5 years old to 50 and above are utilizing the AI technology for both work and leisure purposes. A significant portion of the respondents, including 50% of professors from high-level universities, reported using ChatGPT for work-related tasks. This data showcases the wide-spread adoption of ChatGPT as a valuable tool for individuals of all ages and professions. The versatility of this technology in serving both personal and professional needs is a testament to its effectiveness and efficiency in enhancing productivity and streamlining tasks.
The below graph shows how much Benefits of using ChatGPT in Education.
Another concern with using information generated by ChatGPT is the reliability of its sources and ideas. Which allows students to fact-check the data they use and develop their critical thinking skills. Professors can use AI tools to generate essay outlines and encourage students to build upon them, assess their necessary analysis skills, and incorporate AI-generated work into their analyses. AI tools can also create discussion and debate topics in the classroom.
While it may be difficult to predict how artificial intelligence will continue to change and impact education, universities must adapt. Large corporations are already beginning to lay off workers in favor of AI and automation, and students must be equipped with the skills to navigate a changing world once they graduate.
By repurposing ChatGPT as a tool for education, we can help students better prepare for the future. We must embrace new technology and the skills it requires while valuing the critical thinking and analytical skills that make us human. Let’s not shy away from the changing times, but instead, let’s equip our students with the skills they need to thrive in a constantly evolving world.
