Trust and Transparency Are Key Factors When Using AI in Academia
When asked about the changes in student behavior or attitudes towards learning resulting from incorporating AI into teaching, Wörner responded, "The students greatly appreciated learning that an AI tool may not always be right or correct. They also valued understanding how to verify and review results using other tools. After analyzing a Python program created by ChatGPT, three students approached my desk and said, 'Professor, today we learned how to program Python!' And they truly did. Not only did they excel in the class, but from then on, they consistently produced well-commented and functional code, even during exams without access to ChatGPT." Wörner's experience highlights the transformative potential of AI in education. The students' recognition that AI tools are not infallible and their development of critical thinking skills are invaluable outcomes. Wörner started using ChatGPT as a teaching tool in January 2023 and plans to continue using it in his higher-level Intermediate Programming class next semester.
As AI continues to advance, Turtova and Wörner plan to remain at the forefront, actively collaborating with educators and institutions to explore innovative ways of integrating AI into education. Embracing these transformative technologies can unlock a new era of student-centered learning in the education sector, equipping learners with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the 21st century.
The experiences shared by Turtova and Wörner demonstrate the powerful impact of AI on education. Turtova's approach of integrating ChatGPT into composition classes not only enhances students' writing skills but also fosters creativity and critical thinking. The encouraging results observed when students actively engaged with ChatGPT as a writing tool highlight the benefits of this approach. Similarly, Wörner's utilization of ChatGPT in computing classes empowers students to develop programming skills and problem-solving abilities. The enthusiasm and success displayed by students indicate the positive influence of incorporating AI in the learning process. These educators serve as pioneers, leading the way in utilizing AI to shape modern education and preparing students for the digital era.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Lang is Senior Professor and Chair of Computing & Mathematics Department at Oral Roberts University.