US schools embrace ChatGPT to enhance student learning

Educational institutions in the United States are experiencing a significant shift in their approach towards incorporating artificial intelligence tools into their curricula.

As recently as last year, universities and schools held reservations about integrating AI into their teaching methods, even implementing policies to prohibit the use of tools like ChatGPT.

However, a recent report by CNN reveals a marked change in attitude, with educators from various US and international universities now actively encouraging and educating students on the effective utilisation of such AI tools.

Lance Eaton, an administrator at College Unbound based in Rhode Island, noted a transition from a knee-jerk reaction of AI bans to a more thoughtful consideration of its benefits. "Earlier on, we saw a knee-jerk reaction to AI by banning it going into spring semester, but now the talk is about why it makes sense for students to use it," Eaton stated in an interview with CNN.

To facilitate this shift, educators have formed AI-focused Facebook groups such as "Higher Ed Discussions of Writing and AI," as well as the Google group "AI in Education". These platforms serve as spaces for educators to exchange insights and strategies for integrating AI into the classroom environment.

"It's really helped educators see how others are adapting to and framing AI in the classroom," Eaton explained. He acknowledged that while AI may still evoke some discomfort, it is now possible for educators to observe how various universities and disciplines are approaching its incorporation, ranging from coding to sociology courses.

The report states that educators are increasingly concerned about disregarding or discouraging the use of ChatGPT, considering it a disservice to students. According to a study conducted by Intelligent.com, approximately 30 per cent of college students employed ChatGPT for academic purposes during the recent academic year. The tool saw the most use in English classes. Strikingly, the study discovered that 1 in 8 students reported an improvement in their grade point averages (GPAs), with many attributing this enhancement to their engagement with ChatGPT.

Jules White, an associate professor of computer science at Vanderbilt University, underscored the significance of AI education. "It cannot be ignored," White insisted, noting that expertise in AI is becoming increasingly vital across industries. "I think it's incredibly important for students, faculty, and alumni to become experts in AI because it will be so transformative across every industry in demand so we provide the right training."