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Remember those futuristic movies where computers think like humans? Think Samantha, an AI operating system voiced by Scarlett Johansson in the 2013 movie Her or HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey. This type of computing is no longer just science fiction. It is here now and available for all of us to use. One such tool, ChatGPT, debuted just over a year ago on Nov. 30, 2022. It now has over 180 million users worldwide. Thirteen percent of U.S. teens are using ChatGPT to assist with their homework.
What exactly is ChatGPT, and how does it impact education? ChatGPT is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) that learns from mountains of data, like pictures, sounds, and words, just like humans do. It uses this knowledge to solve problems or even predict what might happen next. AI can generate one-of-a-kind images and artwork, sing a song using your own voice, or carry on a conversation just as if you were talking with a friend or coworker. As it relates to education, AI can provide personalized learning experiences that adapt to individual student needs. It can also be used to automate administrative tasks normally performed by instructors.
AI tools exist that can analyze students' performance and tailor lessons based on their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, if a student excels in math but struggles with grammar, the AI system will adjust the curriculum to focus on enhancing language skills. When students need additional assistance, they can now access AI-powered virtual tutors. These virtual tutors assist students in real time, answering questions and providing additional explanations. Virtual tutors adapt to the student's learning style and, more importantly, are available 24/7, assisting the student on their schedule. No matter the type of institution (K12, community college, or 4-year university), instructional method (face-to-face or online), or class size, AI tools provide students with a personalized approach to learning and help ensure that no student is left behind.
On the administrative side, AI is being used to grade assignments and exams. Traditionally, instructors spend hours grading. The efficiency gained from AI grading systems saves time and enhances the quality of feedback by allowing instructors time to provide more detailed and personalized responses.
While AI is bringing tremendous benefits to education and society as a whole, concerns about plagiarism, data privacy, and job displacement persist. These are valid concerns with no easy answers. No matter the restrictions put in place, students are going to use AI tools when completing assignments. It is up to instructors to find ways to integrate AI into the classroom. To address plagiarism and privacy concerns, educational institutions are implementing AI policies and safeguards. While there will be job losses in specific sectors, the increased usage of AI across all industries, including education, will demand a skilled workforce who can develop, implement, and manage AI technologies.
This is both an exciting and scary time in education. AI is here, and students and instructors are already using it. There is no going back. It is up to us as educators, administrators, parents, community members, and society to strike the right balance between harnessing the benefits of AI and addressing the challenges and ethical dilemmas. If done right, a bright future exists for all of us.
My one piece of advice is to start playing around with AI and think about how it can be used in your jobs and organizations.
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Mike Mosher is the Chief Information Officer for the Iowa Valley Community College District.