GenAI can help literature students think more critically | THE ...
Is ChatGPT destroying critical thinking, or is it allowing us to reconsider how we teach it? This resource explores some ways to empower literature students to use it to deepen their understanding.
Humanities graduates are expected to demonstrate critical thinking skills when navigating the world of work. However, as generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) use in higher education continues to rise, so do concerns that tools such as ChatGPT are diminishing students’ critical thinking abilities. This resource aims to debunk this idea.
Challenging Convenience Over Engagement
At the beginning of last semester, there were concerns about students choosing convenience over critical engagement. Educators fear that tools like ChatGPT offer students a way to cheat, leading to calls for more regulations and penalties. However, we should view GenAI as a tool to enhance student engagement, stimulate curiosity, and invite students to conduct deeper inquiries.
Using GenAI as a Discussion Starter
In a literary and cultural criticism course, students were asked to generate prompts using ChatGPT. By discussing and analyzing the AI's responses as a class, students started questioning their depth and considering how to achieve a more comprehensive analysis. This demonstrated GenAI’s power as a discussion starter rather than a shortcut.
Developing Critical Thinking Skills
Guiding students to assess the reliability and biases of AI-generated responses can help improve their critical thinking skills, especially in an era of (mis)information overload. Engaging students in activities that require them to evaluate and respond to AI-generated content can foster deeper learning and critical thinking.
Empowering Students
Guiding students away from using ChatGPT as a shortcut can create a sense of agency and empower them to engage with technology in a more meaningful way. Encouraging original thought and creativity over saving time can help students recognize the importance of critical thinking and deep engagement with course material.
Ultimately, by integrating GenAI into classroom activities that promote critical thinking and deep engagement, it can become a powerful learning partner that enhances students' skills and knowledge.
