Since tools like ChatGPT were released just a few years ago, they've changed the educational landscape, prompting discussions among North Country educators and parents about their impact on learning and teaching.
Making the case for not using AI
Peter Crowley, an English teacher, emphasizes the importance of students doing their own work to develop critical thinking and individuality. He finds it relatively easy to detect AI use in his small classes and encourages students to understand that essential skills are built through personal effort, not just reliance on AI tools.
Using AI tools so that students learn their capabilities and the downsides
Jeremie Fish, a research assistant professor, advocates for students actively using AI tools to understand their potential and limitations responsibly. He designed a class project where students intentionally tried to 'trick' language models, and employs a 'flipped classroom' approach requiring hands-on problem-solving to ensure deeper learning that is resistant to AI over-reliance.
The rewards of process and struggle
Retired educator Breyne Moskowitz highlights that genuine learning involves struggle and process, which is crucial for developing criticality and logical thinking. She expresses concern that over-reliance on AI can hinder students' ability to evaluate sources and form independent judgments, noting that these essential cognitive skills require nurturing and practice.
Aid or crutch?
Joe Lawrence, a parent, shared his initial apprehension about his child with learning disabilities using AI tools provided by the school. While seeing the potential for assistance, he worried about his son becoming overly dependent and not developing fundamental skills. He's since become more comfortable, partly due to continued skill-building efforts at home.
Swift adoption by teachers
Teachers are rapidly integrating AI tools into their work, with many finding them to be a 'lifesaver' for efficiency. Vicki Kirchner, a speech-language pathologist, uses AI to quickly generate individualized lesson plans tailored to diverse student needs, freeing up more time for direct student engagement. She believes AI enhances, rather than replaces, the teaching profession.
