Learning in the age of ChatGPT: a debate on the impact of AI
On Monday, 20 February a debate was held in the Saxion auditorium in Deventer on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education and society. A topical and far-reaching subject that ensured considerable public interest. The debate led by Steven Dorrestijn, Professor of Ethics and Technology, discussed the opportunities, concerns and what valuable education means in the age of ChatGPT.
Around 120 enthusiasts and critics were seated in the theatre, with three guests on stage: Rob Elsinga (Microsoft Netherlands), Duuk Baten (SURF) and Timo Kos (member of Saxion’s Executive Board). At the start of the debate Steven Dorrestijn said he didn’t want to focus on the technology behind AI, but rather on its social impact. And there was certainly a lot to be said on the matter.
Initially the introduction of ChatGPT was a cause for concern at Saxion, however Dorrestijn had noticed that this attitude quickly changed. The main question now being posed at Saxion is: how can we put ‘it’ to good use? Dorrestijn emphasised from his professional perspective, the importance of having a critical attitude.
Overwhelmed
It was remarkable hearing both Rob Elsinga (Microsoft) and Duuk Baten (SURF) admitting to being “overwhelmed” and “surprised” by the rapid rise of ChatGPT. However, it is also clear to them that AI is currently a hot social topic. SURF recently organised an AI Webinar which attracted its largest audience ever.
For Timo Kos, ChatGPT is already a fact of life. That this AI application is being used by ‘his’ students, was confirmed by the reactions from the audience. ‘If I use ChatGPT to write a report,’ philosophised one of the students present, ‘but demonstrate in my final presentation that I have good command of the subject matter, then what am I doing wrong?’
Providing the right skills and guidance in the use of AI applications.
Practical examples
A variety of issues and practical examples concerning the use of AI were shared by members of the audience. The lecturers in attendance talked about the impact on exam reliability and identifying the work of individual students. And even more important: how to deal with these matters?
Part of the answer to that question can be found in providing the right skills and guidance in the use of AI applications. Particularly for students, who in this day and age still have to ‘just’ write their reports and do final research assignments. But also in terms of support for lecturers, emphasised Timo Kos. The correct application of assessment, is a key theme in this.
As reaction to the impact of OpenAI and Microsoft on education, Rob Elsinga called out jokingly: “Sorry!” However, he was also critical of the role AI is allowed to play in today’s world. Looking to the future, he expects ‘an explosion of applications’. And ChatGPT? According to him that is ‘only a demo’.
One of the most thoughtful contributions from the audience was made by a lecturer. His advice: you need to help students understand what exactly ChatGPT produces. And how to ask such an AI application the right kind of question.
We stand on the threshold of a new journey. Not only for education, but for the whole of society.