Reflecting on the "ChatGPT for Social Good" Unit: A Glimpse into the Future of Education

As I reflect on my last 8th grade unit, "ChatGPT for Social Good" I couldn't help but write this blog with some of my thoughts.

ChatGPT, generative AI, and other advancements in Artificial Intelligence are undeniably changing the future - of everything. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a pivotal force in transforming education. This transformative power of AI provides students with an abundance of information resources, allowing students to learn in a broader and more open environment. However, with these advances, there are also some concerns. Some educators fear that the traditional essence of teaching and how students should learn may be overshadowed by technology..

A debate in the educational sector is whether schools are losing their relevance and efficiency compared to modern AI-driven learning methods. and are we side stepping the essence of learning, or is it time to redefine our learning in light of these advancements in technology?

Here are some thoughts based on my research from various articles and online discussions.

Insights from Diverse Research

• Traditional schools provide a structured environment and an education covering various subjects and learning opportunities, providing a more holistic environment for learning. They offer an environment where students can foster their interpersonal skills and social interactions ensuring that all learners have a 'well–rounded' education. Although instruction, content, and mission vary in schools, this is a different discussion. THe introduction of artificial intelligence, particulary ChatGPT, can complement these traditional methods of education and incorporating it judiciously can provide diverse learning paths, personalizing education and making it more responsive to individual student needs (Yu, 2023).

• The world today is vastly different from decades ago, there is a premium of skills like critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving. In the 25 years that I have been teaching, I have seen a progression from long days of gathering research in libraries and books, to using information to construct new products and creative solutions. The skills from decades past have undeniably changed. While AI, including tools like Chat GPT, provide a convenience and streamline various tasks, including research and writing, it also introduces changes in human behaviors, such as reading, comprehension, and communication patterns. There is an evident need for schools to ''adapt'' and evolve learning techniques quicker to keep up with the rapidly changing technology and the skills necessary to be 'better' than technology.

Emerging Educational Platforms

• The onset of AI tools has effected many sectors, including education. With the rise of distance learning and blended models, tools like Chat GPT can significantly enhance educational outcomes. Options for alternative education and online courses where learners can acquire knowledge independently or in new venues is an obvious route. Micro-schools, e-learning platforms, and other educational resources offer flexibility, personalized learning experiences, and access to a vast array of resources, sometimes lacking in the traditional school system. Educational leaders can leverage AI and emerging Web3 technologies to create personalized learning system. These tools offer students a chance to provde student agency, promote equity in learning, and address global challenges effectively.

• Generative Technology has the potential to enhance learning experiences and provide access to vast amounts of information faster and more efficiently than a single educator in a classroom. Although online tools, educational apps, and virtual reality can supplement traditional classroom learning, most schools can't afford these resources, nor are these tools used regularly by those schools that can afford the technology.

#### The Indomitable Spirit of Social Learning

• The social aspect of schools will always be the winning criterion. Any new generative AI education product team must focus on developing a product that will meet the learner's needs in a non-sociable system. Traditional schools provide opportunities for children to develop interpersonal skills, collaboration, and cultural understanding skills. How can generative AI be transformed to include these important learning moments?

#### Equity in Education

• Schools are designed for everyone; whether they are the best or not is a different story. A primary focus for new ed-tech platforms will be providing equitable access for all students, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. We should remember the need for social equity as educational technology progresses.

The Road Ahead

As technology rapidly changes, the question of whether schools are becoming less relevant and less efficient compared to other learning methods is very complex and debated and a question that needs to be discussed NOW. AI experts are talking about the growth of AI in terms of months, NOT decades. Generative AI has the potential to enhance learning experiences, provide efficient access to information and transform education for all. Still, we must stay focused on the importance of social interaction and equitable access for our learners. Finding a balance between traditional and innovative education will be the tipping point for our future learners.

Reources

"Education is about to radically change: AI for the masses." Getting Smart, 16 Dec. 2022, https://www.gettingsmart.com/2022/12/16/education-is-about-to-radically-change-ai-for-the-masses/.

Wang, Y., Li, Y., & Liu, Y. (2023). Reflection on whether Chat GPT should be banned by academia from the perspective of education and teaching. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1181712. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1181712