Artificial intelligence: How ChatGPT is transforming cheating in schools
ChatGPT, OpenAI's chatbot, has been making waves in the education sector, particularly when it comes to cheating among students. The widespread adoption of this tool, even among junior high school students, has raised concerns among teachers, especially those in humanities disciplines.
One student from Paris, Alice, revealed that the majority of her classmates use ChatGPT for various academic tasks. The tool, known for its intuitive interface, is easily accessible through a free version that can be installed on smartphones, making it a popular choice among teenagers.
The Evolution of Cheating
Cheating, an age-old practice in educational settings, has taken on a new form with the rise of generative artificial intelligence like ChatGPT. Students fall into two main categories when it comes to using this technology for academic purposes.
1. Seeking Answers
Some students use ChatGPT to search for answers they are expected to find independently. This form of cheating often occurs discreetly, with students consulting the tool during homework or study sessions when they feel overwhelmed or underperforming in certain subjects.
For example, Elliot, a high school student, mentioned using ChatGPT for his German homework, a subject he struggles with. The AI's translation capabilities allow him to generate German text at his proficiency level, helping him complete assignments more efficiently.
2. Personal Assistant
On the other hand, some students view ChatGPT as a personal assistant rather than a tool for doing tasks on their behalf. They acknowledge the importance of independent learning and only use the AI for generating ideas or outlines, rather than completing entire assignments.
Alice, for instance, leverages ChatGPT for creating outlines in history or drafting short texts in English. However, she noted that the tool is less reliable for subjects like math, where inaccuracies can waste her time.
In conclusion, while ChatGPT has revolutionized the way students approach academic tasks, its impact on learning outcomes and ethical considerations remain subjects of ongoing debate in educational circles.
