Lecture Notes on AI and Education

Introduction

• Discussion among English teachers about AI and its implications.
• Example of a student cheating using ChatGPT to write an essay.
• Initial disbelief about AI's writing capabilities.

ChatGPT Overview

• Released in November, became widely known.
• Featured in major news outlets, including Time magazine.
• ChatGPT is a large language model; learns from data to improve accuracy.

AI's Applications

• Various fields utilizing AI:
  • Doctors diagnosing patients.
  • Businesses creating advertisements and content.
  • Individuals handling personal tasks (e.g., thank you cards).
• Popular applications integrating AI:
  • Snapchat, Instacart, Duolingo, Quizlet.

Advancements in AI

• Release of GPT-4 in March:
  • Can analyze images and web links in addition to text.
• Microsoft integrating GPT-4 into Bing and Office Suite.
• Google responded with their AI system "Bard".

Concerns in Education

• Educators concerned about AI's impact post-pandemic.
• Notable decline in students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Educators worry about AI diminishing students’ development and reliance on technology.

Reevaluation of Educational Practices

• AI challenges educators to reconsider teaching methods:
  • Importance of teaching relevance to students.
  • Questioning traditional assignment formats (e.g., five-paragraph essays).
• Need for a concrete answer to students' questions about real-life applicability of what they learn.

Response to AI Technology

• Many schools blocking AI applications like ChatGPT.
• Debate on whether to restrict or teach safe and productive use of AI.
• Blocking methods may lead to increased curiosity among students.

Embracing AI in the Classroom

• Importance of collaboration and project-based learning.
• Examples of classroom activities utilizing AI:
  • Math problems testing with AI.
  • Alternative history writing in social studies.
  • Science discussions as famous scientists.
• AI can assist in writing, editing, and tutoring students.

Benefits for Teachers

• Teachers using AI for lesson plans, discussions, and assessments.
• AI can make writing more accessible to diverse learning abilities.

Preparing Students for the Future

• AI is a reality in businesses; schools need to prepare students accordingly.
• Importance of teaching safe interaction with technology.
• Students’ varied awareness and comfort levels with AI.

Conclusion

• Acknowledgment that AI will become integral in daily life.
• Urgency for educational institutions to adapt to AI advancements.
• Call for teachers to redesign curricula in light of AI's presence.