Schools have been urged to involve their students in creating a code of conduct regarding the implementation of a revolutionary Artificial Intelligence (AI) software, ChatGPT. This opinion was expressed during a webinar held recently, warning caution of the potential risks associated with the use of ChatGPT.
ChatGPT is a software that has created a buzz amongst the education sector due to its capabilities to generate convincing text and images in response to user prompts. This has raised concerns over possible misuse and plagiarism which have caused the Higher Education Colleges and State Examinations Commission (SEC) to begin studying the risks and consider possible solutions. Despite this, ChatGPT also has astounding potential when it comes to personalised learning, instant feedback, and accessibility.
More than 500 Principal, Deputy Principal, and Teacher representatives of 16 Education and Training Board schools (ETBs) joined the University of Limerick-led webinar to talk about the possibilities this technology offers and the risks. They were advised to start conversations surrounding it and to develop a code of behaviour which would mean involving the students in the process.
To better prepare schools, the Education and Training Board Ireland (ETBI) and its Digital Strategy Group, led by Donnchadha Ó Treasaigh, director of schools in Limerick and Clare ETB, is raising awareness of the technology, furnishing the schools and teachers with all the knowledge and guidance needed to assess its potentials.
ChatGPT is one of the pioneering Artificial Intelligence bots and could offer amazing potential in the learning sector. It provides access to personalized learning, instant feedback and efficiency, as well as with the risk of possible misuse and plagiarism. Schools should be actively discussing the implications of this cutting-edge tool, and engaging students in the development of a code of conduct so that the risks and potential of ChatGPT can be enjoyed safely and responsibly.
The University of Limerick, together with Education and Training Board Ireland, have opened a conversation that has profound potential to revolutionize learning and they have distributed the needed information to prepare schools and educators for the changes ahead.
