Generative AI in Undergraduate Information Technology Education -- Insights from nine courses
Project Overview
The document examines the role of generative AI, particularly ChatGPT, in transforming undergraduate information technology education at the University of South Eastern Norway. It outlines both the beneficial and detrimental effects of AI tools on learning assessments, student experiences, and pedagogical approaches. Key applications of generative AI include enhancing personalized learning, streamlining administrative tasks, and fostering interactive learning environments. However, the research also highlights significant challenges, such as maintaining exam integrity and the necessity for educators to evolve their teaching practices in response to AI's capabilities. Findings suggest that while generative AI can enrich the educational experience by providing tailored support and resources, it also poses risks that require careful consideration and adaptation by educators to ensure effective and ethical use. Overall, the document underscores the importance of balancing innovation with academic integrity as generative AI becomes increasingly integrated into educational frameworks.
Key Applications
ChatGPT
Context: Undergraduate Information Technology courses at the University of South Eastern Norway, targeting IT students.
Implementation: ChatGPT was integrated into various IT courses through reflective notes from lecturers and discussions in focus groups.
Outcomes: Enhanced learning through personalized assistance, improved access to learning materials, and better student engagement.
Challenges: Concerns over exam integrity, reliance on generative AI leading to superficial learning, and the need for critical thinking skills.
Implementation Barriers
Technical
Issues with server downtime, connectivity problems, or software bugs could disrupt the learning process.
Proposed Solutions: Establish robust infrastructure and provide training for effective use of AI tools.
Ethical
Potential for cheating and loss of critical thinking skills if students overly rely on AI for answers.
Proposed Solutions: Incorporate guidelines and instructions on appropriate use, including how to reference AI-generated work.
Content Quality
Responses from AI may not always be accurate or relevant, leading to misinformation.
Proposed Solutions: Require verification of AI-generated content by educators and promote critical engagement with material.
Project Team
Anh Nguyen Duc
Researcher
Tor Lønnestad
Researcher
Ingrid Sundbø
Researcher
Marius Rohde Johannessen
Researcher
Veralia Gabriela
Researcher
Salah Uddin Ahmed
Researcher
Rania El-Gazzar
Researcher
Contact Information
For information about the paper, please contact the authors.
Authors: Anh Nguyen Duc, Tor Lønnestad, Ingrid Sundbø, Marius Rohde Johannessen, Veralia Gabriela, Salah Uddin Ahmed, Rania El-Gazzar
Source Publication: View Original PaperLink opens in a new window
Project Contact: Dr. Jianhua Yang
LLM Model Version: gpt-4o-mini-2024-07-18
Analysis Provider: Openai