What is ChatGPT?
ChatGPT was developed by OpenAI, an AI research company, and was first launched in November 2022.
ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer) is a natural language tool that allows you to have a natural conversation and more with a chatbot. For example, ChatGPT can assist you with tasks such as answering questions, writing essays, coding software, debugging software, writing emails, explaining complex topics, and even create original jokes.
The use of ChatGPT in Australian education
There is no doubt ChatGPT will be a major disruptor in the education sector. In Australia, the governments of Queensland, Tasmania and New South Wales have banned primary and secondary students from using AI for school. However, the South Australian government has allowed students to use AI, but not for graded work. S.A’s Education Minister Blair Boyer says AI is here to stay and issuing a blanket ban would be like burying our heads in the sand.
Will students use AI to cheat?
There will always be a small percentage of students who will try to use AI to cheat. However, with appropriate checks and balances in place, the risk of a student successfully cheating can be well managed.
Will ChatGPT remain a free service?
At the moment ChatGPT is free service, but due to its popularity, I would expect a paid subscription-based model in the near future.
The future of AI in Australian education?
Even though it is early days of AI in education, I foresee it being like the evolution of the internet in schools. At first educators were apprehensive of the challenges they faced with the internet, but eventually leveraged that advantages that it offered. It is now standard for Australian classrooms to use laptops/iPads, smart-boards, and remote learning.
I am confident AI can be used in education to benefit not only students, but teachers. Instead of burying our heads in the sand, it is crucial that Australia is at the forefront of this technology by implementing AI into the school curriculum.