Teach Tech Talks Session 5: Dr. Torrey Trust

Many students use GenAI, like ChatGPT, but often misunderstand its functionality. It's important for them to understand that these systems are “guessing machines” rather than factual repositories.

Understanding that GenAI chatbots are not search engines, students should be critical of the information presented by these tools. GenAI can often “hallucinate” information and fabricate responses. Many also do not provide resources for the information they produce. One exception is Copilot, which is designed to provide more accurate information by providing the resources in its answers. Nevertheless, students should always check the accuracy of the information.

Contrary to popular belief, GenAI systems are not adept at producing high-quality writing. They often generate mediocre content that may not meet academic standards. Hence, students should understand that outsourcing their writing to these tools may not always help them become better writers

Relying heavily on AI can stifle genuine intellectual engagement and reduce critical thinking. Instead, students should be taught how to use these idea-generation tools in ways that support their productive thinking processes, not replace them.

Students should not cite GenAI as a source in academic work, as it generates output based on existing sources. Instead, students should be directed back to finding those existing sources; Microsoft’s co-pilot provides sources that it is generating the data (much like Wikipedia).

AI systems often mirror human biases and predominantly reflect Western cultural perspectives, which can skew their outputs and perpetuate existing prejudices. Students can be engaged in activities to help them critically assess output for such biases.

These tools collect vast amounts of user and internet data (e.g., time zone, country, dates, times of access, type of computer/device, computer connection). Students should be vigilant and understand the privacy policies of their tools.

Not using AI can widen the gap between technologically adept and non-adept people, potentially impacting future opportunities. Banning AI in classrooms may not be an ideal option. Instead, students should be equipped with the skills to work with AI responsibly. 

Students should learn how to use AI tools, ensuring they remain actively engaged and not passive users effectively and critically.