ChatGPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is an artificial intelligence chatbot program designed by OpenAI. It uses machine learning to generate human-like responses based on a user’s prompt. ChatGPT is capable of generating text in many forms and styles including prose, poetry, song lyrics, and even computer code.
Teaching with ChatGPT
Ideas on using this tool for teaching and learning include discussion facilitation, content creation, lesson planning and grading assistance. But why not ask the bot to list a few specific examples, too?? Here’s what ChatGPT has to say:
As a language model, ChatGPT can be used in various ways to support teaching and learning in higher education. Here are some ideas:
- As a study aid: Students can ask ChatGPT questions related to their course material, and the model can provide answers and explanations. This can be particularly helpful for complex topics that students may struggle to understand on their own.
- As a writing assistant: Students can ask ChatGPT for help with writing assignments, such as suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and organization. This can help students improve their writing skills and produce higher-quality work.
- As a research tool: Students and faculty can ask ChatGPT for information on a specific topic or to suggest relevant articles or research papers. This can help students find resources they may not have otherwise discovered.
- As a language practice tool: Language learners can use ChatGPT to practice their language skills by engaging in conversations in the target language. ChatGPT can provide feedback on grammar and vocabulary, and help learners build their confidence and fluency.
- As a teaching assistant: Faculty can use ChatGPT to provide additional support to students, such as answering frequently asked questions, providing examples or case studies, or offering additional explanations of complex concepts.
It’s important to note that while ChatGPT can be a helpful tool for teaching and learning, it should not replace the expertise and guidance of a human instructor or mentor. It should be used as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional teaching methods.
Source: ChatGPT via chat.openai.com (February 2023)
Get Started
To get started with ChatGPT, visit https://chat.openai.com/ and create a free account. Once you’ve logged in, you can begin inputting prompts and generating text. Make sure to review the output carefully, as ChatGPT is not always perfect and may generate text that is inaccurate, biased or inappropriate. It has limited knowledge of global events after 2021. However, with some practice and careful editing, ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for any academic.
Helpful Resources
- Dean, J. (2023, February 16). Five ways to use Social Annotation with and against ChatGPT. Hypothesis.
- Grobe, C (2023, January 18). Why I’m not scared of ChatGPT. The Chronicle of Higher Education.
- Metzler, K. & ChatGPT. (2022, December 7). How ChatGPT Could Transform Higher Education. Social Science Space.
- Mollick, E. (2023, February 17). My class required AI. Here’s what I’ve learned so far. [Substack newsletter]. One Useful Thing (And Also Some Other Things).
- Roose, K. (2023, January 12). Don’t Ban ChatGPT in Schools. Teach With It.: The Shift. New York Times (Online); New York Times Company.
- Watkins, M. (2022, December 14). Guest Post: AI Will Augment Not Replace. Inside Higher Ed
- Zotero Groups. ChatGPT.
There are also free tools to help detect AI written text. While impressive, it’s important to note that they are not infallible and can produce false positives/negatives.
Here are a few GPT detection tools:
If you need further assistance, ITS-RITG is available to answer your questions or meet you for a consultation. Contact us through the Online Service Desk.