Using AI writing tools like ChatGPT in the classroom has become a growing concern for educators. While some see it as a helpful tool for students, it can have detrimental effects on their critical thinking skills and overall learning experience.
School work is not just about completing assignments; it’s about helping students discover who they are and developing their problem-solving abilities. When students rely on ChatGPT to churn out assignments quickly, they miss out on the opportunity to think critically, observe, analyze, and make clear judgments. In essence, they are bypassing the essential skills that school work is designed to cultivate.
The argument in favor of using ChatGPT as an educational tool is that it can unlock student creativity and serve as an after-hours tutor or debate partner. However, this technology was not specifically designed for educational settings. It assumes that students will know when and when not to use it, but this is a risky assumption to make. Students may start by using ChatGPT for outlining assignments and quickly progress to using it for their final essays, undermining their own growth and development.
What’s even more concerning is how this technology is shaping students’ expectations about school. Even before the arrival of ChatGPT, students were already rushing through their work to get back to social media. They’ve come to expect the immediacy of online experiences in all aspects of their lives, including the classroom. The use of ChatGPT reinforces this mindset and reinforces the idea that there is no need for a writing process or critical thinking skills.
Thinking critically and generating original ideas takes time and effort. It is a process that cannot be replicated by a machine. By relying on ChatGPT, students risk feeling unprepared, anxious, and insecure both inside and outside the classroom. They miss out on the opportunity to believe in themselves, build confidence, and develop their own unique perspectives.
Several school districts have already banned the use of ChatGPT, and tech leaders and researchers have called for government regulation. The impact of AI on students’ ability to distinguish right from wrong and to develop their own ideas cannot be ignored. It is essential for students to understand that their ideas have value and that they can rely on themselves to think through problems.
In conclusion, the use of ChatGPT in the classroom undermines critical thinking skills, creativity, and the opportunity for personal growth. While it may seem like a convenient tool, it hinders students’ ability to think independently, problem-solve, and develop their own unique ideas. It is crucial to keep AI writing tools like ChatGPT out of the classroom to preserve the integrity of education and foster the development of well-rounded individuals.