In November 2022, OpenAI released ChatGPT to the public which allowed anyone to generate intelligent, human-like answers, changing the way we view and use Artificial Intelligence (AI). Upon release, universities and teachers have expressed concerns over ChatGPT, seeing it as a potential threat to academic integrity. However, recently, regulations around AI in universities have eased and students are seeing more opportunities to effectively use AI in their studies.
Effective Uses of AI
Throughout a semester, content can become increasingly difficult to understand due to complex topics and challenging coursework. AI can aid students in understanding content by providing them with specialized assistance such as summarized notes, quizzes, and further educational resources. By providing a personalised approach to learning, students can reach their full potential and maximize their educational experience.
AI can also aid in brainstorming ideas for assignments. It can offer initial ideas to assist students in understanding the topic of the essay or report, guiding them in getting started. This support enables students to think critically, gain insights and consider all aspects of a topic.
When it comes to writing essays, reports and case studies, AI tools such as Grammarly and Turnitin can provide grammatical, spelling and vocabulary suggestions that improve the quality of assignments. Additionally, universities also offer AI services including Studiosity which provides feedback on assessments.
Considerations of AI
Although AI can serve as a powerful tool in students’ learning, it’s also important to remember that it should be used to assist student learning rather than inhibit it. Many Australian universities have implemented guidelines for how AI should be used. These regulations vary, so it’s important to check the rules that apply to your university. Some universities allow students to use AI-generated content as long as it is properly referenced. They may use AI detecting tools such as Turnitin or The CheckerAI. If there is evidence that a student used AI in an assignment without acknowledgement, they may be harshly punished, so it is important to use this technology wisely.
Some students expressed worries about the technology impacting students’ learning skills and creativity. An overreliance on generative AI has the possibility to diminish students' abilities to complete tasks independently when entering the job market.
There have also been widespread concerns about ethics and privacy concerns . For AI systems to be developed and trained, they require vast amounts of data and will therefore make use of personal data, often without consent. This technology is still relatively new, so new AI models are being developed at a faster rate than it can be regulated.
The Future of AI
More and more companies, particularly in the tech industry, are showing an increased interest in AI. Look no further than the many AI tools being released and developed such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Meta AI. These tools are capable of generating incredibly human-like and accurate responses, and since these leaps in AI technology have only recently come out, it's exciting to think about how much more impressive they can get in the next few years.
Employees with a strong understanding of how to develop and use AI are becoming more attractive to potential employers. Therefore, both students and universities should be moving to embrace new and innovative AI technologies. Companies are always looking for students and graduates with strong technology and AI skills to leverage in their exciting internship and graduate opportunities. Look here to see who's hiring!
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