The Future of Learning: Large Language Models through the Lens of Students
Project Overview
The document explores the integration of generative AI, particularly large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, in the educational landscape, highlighting both their promising applications and the challenges they present. Students find value in the efficiency and conversational capabilities of LLMs, which enhance learning and facilitate idea generation. However, they also raise concerns regarding the accuracy of information, trustworthiness, and the risk of becoming overly reliant on AI technologies. While there is a general positive sentiment towards the use of LLMs in education, ethical implications and the potential impact on students' critical thinking skills are critical issues that warrant careful attention. Overall, the findings suggest that while generative AI can significantly enrich educational experiences, its implementation requires a balanced approach that addresses these ethical considerations and fosters independent thought among students.
Key Applications
ChatGPT for Learning and Communication Enhancement
Context: Used by students and teaching assistants for programming assistance, information retrieval, brainstorming, and drafting communications. This includes improving understanding of complex concepts, enhancing creativity, and facilitating effective communication.
Implementation: ChatGPT is utilized to assist in programming tasks, simplify complex concepts, brainstorm ideas, and streamline communication tasks such as drafting emails and reports. It serves as a multi-functional tool to support various educational activities.
Outcomes: Increased student engagement, improved efficiency in information retrieval, enhanced creativity, incidental learning of vocabulary and writing techniques.
Challenges: Concerns about accuracy, authenticity of interactions, over-reliance on AI for critical thinking, dependency, and potential loss of critical thinking skills.
Implementation Barriers
Ethical
Concerns about intellectual property and the authenticity of AI-generated content in educational settings.
Proposed Solutions: Implement measures to restrict AI usage in assignments and develop courses to educate students on responsible AI use.
Trust
Students express a crisis of trust regarding the accuracy and reliability of AI outputs, leading to concerns about the quality of information.
Proposed Solutions: Encourage critical evaluation of AI-generated content and integrate mentorship for novice users.
Dependency
Fear that reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT may erode critical thinking skills and hinder independent thought.
Proposed Solutions: Balance the use of AI tools with traditional learning methods to maintain independent thought.
Project Team
He Zhang
Researcher
Jingyi Xie
Researcher
Chuhao Wu
Researcher
Jie Cai
Researcher
ChanMin Kim
Researcher
John M. Carroll
Researcher
Contact Information
For information about the paper, please contact the authors.
Authors: He Zhang, Jingyi Xie, Chuhao Wu, Jie Cai, ChanMin Kim, John M. Carroll
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