When entering a modern-day classroom, students at every desk have an open tab for AI, each virtual portal beckoning them into a boundless realm of knowledge and possibilities, setting the stage for an educational journey where the lines between human intellect and artificial intelligence blur into a captivating narrative of discovery and innovation. The introduction of accessible AI in classrooms has stirred a wave of uncertainty among educators and school districts nationwide. As the capabilities of AI, exemplified by the release of ChatGPT in November 2022, become more apparent, concerns and questions arise about its long-term impact on education.
Associate Head for Academic Affairs Adrianna Truby has taken proactive steps to shape the narrative on campus. By organizing AI Committee meetings with interested faculty, she leads the charge in exploring the potential benefits of AI, particularly ChatGPT, in educational settings.
“We are eager to learn more, to experiment with the various AI tools, and to explore the ways in which they will enrich the teaching and learning experience for teachers and students,” Truby said.
Computer Science teacher Brian Diaz recognizes the transformative potential of ChatGPT.
“ChatGPT, though not the only AI available to students, can have a massive impact on the way students learn if used correctly,” Diaz said.
Diaz emphasized that it goes beyond mere question-answering, as it can effectively break down and explain complex problems, enhancing student understanding. He said he advocates for viewing and using AI to propel student learning forward, preparing them for the future of AI development.
However, not all teachers share the same optimism. Eduardo Barreto, an English teacher, said he is taking a cautious stance. Concerned about students developing a dependency on AI, he admits to reverting to “pen and paper.” Barreto said he worries that students might lose their unique voice in writing, making their future in the discipline more challenging and their resistance to learning easier to foster.
In the realm of arts education, Tim Lester, a performing arts teacher, introduces a different perspective. He believes that AI, lacking a human touch, cannot be a reliable resource in his field.
“AI has no soul, and music comes from the soul,” Lester said.
