In today's technology-driven educational landscape, AI tools like ChatGPT have become more commonly used for homework among learners. Children tend to promote the advantages of getting immediate solutions, explanations, and content generation, enriching students' understanding of various subjects.
While AI assistance has its advantages, it's equally essential to recognize the importance of independent learning and the potential disadvantages of relying heavily on AI tools. Increasingly, many parents complain, "My child uses ChatGPT for homework".
AimHigherAcademic sees that it is in fact a reality to embrace. AI will soon become an integral part of our daily life. In this regard, we have explored this issue so that you as parents are aware of your role in embracing AI while fostering independent learning skills in your child's learning process.
The Power of AI in Education: Fact to admit
An article in the New York Times (2023) points out that AI such as ChatGPT used by students is in fact inevitable. AI tools like ChatGPT have revolutionized learning, providing students with on-demand support and insights. They stimulate curiosity and exploration, making complex concepts more accessible and learning more interactive.
Yet, within the realm of AI-powered learning, nurturing independent learning skills (still the cornerstone of learning objectives) can be a trade-off. Furthermore, not all details from ChatGPT are accurate, hence it is a double sword for learners (Al Afnan et al., 2023; Atlas, 2023).
Independent Learning skills are a must
Despite support and increased use of ChatGPT, this technology can be detrimental to independent learning skills such as memorization, critical thinking, and self-discipline. Without practicing these skills, learners are at risk of being inexperienced when they need to tackle complex challenges in the working environment in the future.
Another drawback of ChatGPT is it could only generate answers with available information the AI could access (There are limitations to contents that it could reach). The answers generated also depend upon how each question is phrased, which means some questions could lead to limited viewpoints or even inaccuracies. Coupled with decreased core learning skills, children may lose confidence in their own learning capacities when needed to use without AI support (Choi et al.,2023; Halaweh, 2023; Kasneci et al.,2023).
Striking the Right Balance To Harness the Benefits of AI The most crucial part is parents' awareness that AI only Complements, and Doesn't Replace teachers: Allow AI as a complementary tool for teachers to support learning, but teachers should ensure students tackle problems independently before seeking AI assistance. A good example is the program Khanmigo Khan Academy incorporates AI for students' benefits
AI as a Tool to Engage in Active Learning: Encourage students to actively engage with concepts, ask questions, seek varied resources, and collaborate with peers. An example is MIT Lab's successful launch of a reading program for small children using AI. There are developing areas to prioritize, notably critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Check out the TED talk video on 5 ways to increase critical thinking here.
Apply AI to solidify fundamental learning skills: Foster curiosity by assigning projects that require students to explore topics in-depth, encouraging independent research and teamwork, as demonstrated in the video from Edutopia (2015)
Conclusion:
AI tools like ChatGPT should be used for a positive learning process, by striking the right balance between AI assistance and fostering skills. Only when we nurture fundamental learning skills alongside AI integration, we equip the next generation to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Bibliography
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AlAfnan, M. A., Dishari, S., Jovic, M., & Lomidze, K. (2023). Chatgpt as an educational tool: Opportunities, challenges, and recommendations for communication, business writing, and composition courses. Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Technology, 3(2), 60-68.
Atlas, S. (2023). ChatGPT for higher education and professional development: A guide to conversational AI.
Choi, J. H., Hickman, K. E., Monahan, A., & Schwarcz, D. (2023). ChatGPT goes to law school. Available at SSRN.
Edutopia (2015). Inquiry-Based Learning: From Teacher-Guided to Student-Driven. YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAYh4nWUkU0.
Halaweh, M. (2023). ChatGPT in education: Strategies for responsible implementation.
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Khan, S. (2023). Sal Khan: How AI could save (not destroy) education. [online] www.ted.com. Available at: https://www.ted.com/talks/sal_khan_how_ai_could_save_not_destroy_education/transcript [Accessed 15 Jul. 2023].
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Roose, K. (2023). Don’t Ban ChatGPT in Schools. Teach With It. The New York Times. [online] 12 Jan. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/12/technology/chatgpt-schools-teachers.html.
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