Is there a good way to use ChatGPT and other AI systems for learning?

Question

This question explores the potential of AI in learning and looks at:

1. How can I create my own chatbot to help me in school?
2. Is there an ethical way to do this so that the teacher and school knows that I am learning and not cheating?
3. Is there a way to show my thinking in the prompt construction so that teachers understand?
4. Can ChatGPT and other AI systems help me to learn the material for my class?
5. Can I learn how to construct GPT prompts for all my subjects?
6. What is a dataset or knowledge base and how do I use these to make sure the information I am learning is correct?

Answer 1

I've got something that may be interesting and fun for you (or not). I tutor online, and recently I started using the AI-generated art app to do this: my student enters keywords from notes taken during a session, while I have already entered keywords based on concepts and details I want to emphasize. We basically compare the rendering of our two points of view in graphic illustration format, and then we discuss the similarities and differences. It's a way to see if we're "on the same page," grasping the same key concepts. And I archive these images, so we have a kind of scrapbook or portfolio to revisit in review. I've found that discussing these ai-art images really helped anchor the content and inspired my students to examine content from multiple perspectives - just for the pleasure of seeing what the ai kicks out, depending on input - and comparing them all for nuance. Perhaps you could use something like that in study groups or with friends? There would be no worry of "cheating," as you are simply illustrating your point of view from your own notes, and it's fun to share.

Answer 2

I think it's important for educators to look at a student's ability to think critically and form good questions. If we took a look at the input, i.e. the creation of meaningful and thoughtful prompts (some of which can be 1,000 words or more and trained on large datasets) we would be less concerned with the output. Sometimes the deep learning takes place in the formation of ChatGPT and other LLM prompts. Certainly, as pointed out above, if the output is a list of overly general observations, then little effort went into the prompt. The teaching of this subject area is also part of a learning process and my hope is that we will treat fellow teachers the way we might treat our students. We wouldn't shame our students and we should not treat fellow teachers in this way either. I'm hoping this can be a more collegial process for all of us.

Answer 3

Absolutely! Here are some effective ways to leverage AI systems like ChatGPT for learning:

1. Ask Questions: Interact with ChatGPT to clarify concepts, ask questions about topics you're studying, or seek explanations for things you find confusing.

2. Concept Reinforcement: Use AI to reinforce your understanding of concepts by discussing them in-depth. ChatGPT can provide additional insights or alternative explanations that may deepen your understanding.

3. Research Assistance: When working on a project or assignment, utilize AI to gather relevant information, find resources, or explore different perspectives on a topic.

4. Language Practice: Improve your language skills by engaging in conversations with ChatGPT. Practice writing essays, summaries, or even creative pieces, and receive feedback from the AI.

5. Programming Practice: Explore coding concepts and practice coding with AI-based platforms that offer coding assistance. You can receive suggestions, debug code, or learn new programming languages.

6. Exploration of New Topics: Use AI systems to discover new topics of interest or explore areas outside your expertise. ChatGPT can provide introductions to various subjects and recommend resources for further learning.

7. Personalized Learning: Customize your learning experience by interacting with AI systems tailored to specific subjects or learning objectives. These systems can adapt to your pace and preferences, providing personalized recommendations and assistance.

8. Collaborative Learning: Join online communities or forums where you can engage with both AI systems and other learners. Discuss ideas, share resources, and collaborate on projects with peers and AI assistance.

9. Critical Thinking Practice: Challenge yourself to critically evaluate information provided by AI systems. Verify facts, cross-reference sources, and develop your ability to discern reliable information from biased or inaccurate content.

10. Experimentation and Creativity: Use AI as a tool for experimentation and creativity. Generate ideas, brainstorm solutions to problems, or even create art with the assistance of AI systems like ChatGPT.

Remember to approach AI-based learning as a supplement to traditional learning methods rather than a replacement. While AI can offer valuable assistance and insights, it's essential to combine it with active engagement, practice, and interaction with human teachers and peers for a well-rounded learning experience.

Answer 4

Coincidentally (or perhaps expectedly), one of the answers in this thread was actually written by ChatGPT itself! Can you guess which one? (Hint: ChatGPT loves lists—especially numbered lists.)

If you want to learn more about many of the other telltale signs that something was written by ChatGPT instead of an actual human, I invite you to learn more from me. :)