Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology such as ChatGPT brings with it questions about its use in writing essays and other academic tasks. To explore this, the Oxford Mail asked what kind of news stories ChatGPT could manage to create when given a request about Oxford.
Getting a glimpse of ChatGPT’s quality, the first article created by the AI chatbot was about the University of Oxford aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2035. It gave details on how the university will invest heavily in renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind while also partnering with organisations that are working on reforestation and nature-based solutions. Although the article was a well-written piece with nearly perfect grammar, it did not read as an entirely accurate ‘breaking news’ article.
To explore further what the AI could do, another more specific request was made – the hotly debated issue surrounding Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). The article created by ChatGPT provided an overview of the positive and negative effects of LTNs, such as the reduction in traffic volume and increased use of active transportation as well as criticism from some residents that the LTNs were impacting their daily routines. Once again, the information present in the article was factual but the quotes were fictitious fabricated by the AI.
ChatGPT provided interesting articles that showcased the AI’s ability to write news stories. Determining whether these are broken news or not, it is safe to say that it might be better left to human journalists to check the accuracy of facts and real quotes in the article. Moreover, it is of utmost importance to keep a SEO-based human tone while writing the article and to ensure that the article is free from plagiarism and high-quality content.
The article mentioned Chris Packham, a TV presenter, who spoke to the council advice not to repeat ‘wildflower fiasco’. Chris is known for his work for activists and charity groups that focus on climate change, wildlife and the natural environment. He is also the host of the BBC documentary series ‘Big Cats’ and ‘Springwatch’.
The other mention in the article is Oxfordshire County Council, an authority that acts on behalf of the county of Oxfordshire in England. It is responsible for a wide range of services including education, transport, waste management and fire services. The LTNs implemented by the council is a vital part of the Oxfordshire Transport Strategy which seeks to deliver sustainable transport ties and reduce emissions within the county.
