Learning vs AI?

AI seems to have taken the world by storm. Just a few years ago, the idea of an artificial assistant seemed like Science Fiction – but now it permeates every aspect of society. The UK Government signed a deal in July to integrate OpenAI’s services, such as ChatGPT, into public services and ministries (OpenAI and UK sign deal to use AI in public services – BBC News). AI has become seen as the “ultimate timesaver” and naturally has seen students flock to its sites to streamline their work, or to cut corners. The question therefore is whether this is a benefit or a burden on education.

Benefit
AI naturally saves time. Its search engines and editing tools allow for complex data to be compiled in a way that conventional search engines and tools cannot currently match. Even I have used AI to proof-read or even tweak some of my written work to improve my prose – and I know of many other academics who are also using it as an editing assistant. Research into its impact on students indicates that students utilising AI indicate increased engagement and personal learning, and improved grades (The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Students’ Academic Development | MDPI). Therefore, there is evidence that a limited use of AI can assist students to perform tasks and streamline their work.

Burden

However, there is far more evidence that AI only allows individuals to perform well in tasks. This means that students are able to get good grades as the AI platform can do the work for them – but their skills begin to decline. One study found that individuals using AI had the weakest retention and engagement compared to individuals utilising search engines or relying on their own skillset (Your Brain on ChatGPT: Accumulation of Cognitive Debt when Using an AI Assistant for Essay Writing Task — MIT Media Lab). More worryingly, their brain showed more limited activity – which if replicated in the long-term would lead to a significant reduction in cognitive ability. In short, long-term reliance on AI can literally make you dumber.

AI: In or out?

The recommendations therefore are that AI should be used in the same way as the Google Search Engine, or the tools on writing platforms such as Word – they should assist but not write the work. Students justifying their reliance on AI are likely to see significant limitations in their life outcomes once it becomes clear that they are unable to perform tasks. Like all technology it can be a great multiplier or potentially ruin your work. Luckily, our tutors can guide students on the correct and appropriate use of AI that allows them to both master their subject whilst increasing their productivity. Contact us today!

This Blog was Written By Dr Daniel Chesse

Do take a look at earlier blogs:

Online vs In-Person Teaching – Cardiff Vale Tutors

What Influences Students? – Cardiff Vale Tutors

Should there be a National Phone Ban in All Schools? – Cardiff Vale Tutors