College professors are embracing the power of ChatGPT, an AI tool launched in November 2022 by OpenAI. The tool can be used to complete a wide range of tasks, such as crafting essays, solving math equations, writing HTML code, and brainstorming ideas for graphic design. ChatGPT has been described as "revolutionary" by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, and while some K-12 educators express skepticism due to ethical concerns and potential cheating, many in higher education are optimistic about ChatGPT's capabilities.
Useful Applications for Education
Despite concerns about ChatGPT's potential for misuse, many educators see it as having a permanent place in the professional world that students will enter. College professors have found ways to incorporate ChatGPT into their instruction and assessments, as well as to automate time-consuming or mundane tasks. Below are some examples:
- Customized Learning: Professors can use ChatGPT to generate questions or assignments for specific students based on their needs.
- Facilitating Writing: Students can use ChatGPT to complete practice math problems and check their process of solving an equation. It can also be a helpful tutoring tool for foreign language students.
- Grading and Assessments: Professors are using ChatGPT to build assessments, assist with grading, and create syllabi.
As ChatGPT becomes more common in higher education, experts believe that it will become a necessary skill for job applicants to display proficiency in. Being able to judge the accuracy of information generated by ChatGPT will be essential, as will knowing how to prompt AI tools to get the best results.
Reevaluating Assessments
While some educators are concerned about students using ChatGPT to plagiarize and cheat, others see it as an opportunity to reevaluate assessments in a way that benefits both them and students. Professors can design assessments that can't be completed easily through ChatGPT, focusing on a student's application and understanding of the content rather than just their writing. Ultimately, professors are interested in seeing a student's skill in researching and displaying the information.
As technology continues to evolve, the role of professors in shaping education is becoming increasingly critical. Embracing tools like ChatGPT can help professors provide more customized and efficient learning experiences for their students and prepare them for a rapidly changing workforce.
