OLOO: Is ChatGPT a learning tool or path to dependence?

Faith Oloo. The writer is a student at Rongo University.

Digitalization has woven itself into the fabrics of our day to day lives, transforming how we work, learn and communicate. ChatGPT is an advanced language model developed by Open AI. This Artificial Intelligence tool serves as a bridge between traditional learning methods and modern advancements.

Growing use of AI tools like ChatGPT in education has been important. It Is accessible at any time, making learning efficient. It aids in research, learning assistance, writing and grammar support. It also helps in quickly gathering information which can aid students for exam preparation. Despite this tool being useful, it also has negative impacts depending on the user.

First, Over-reliance. In higher learning institutions, students might become too dependent on AI tools since they have the freedom of having their gadgets even in study rooms. This act of over-reliance reduces their critical thinking and problem-solving ability.

Second, Plagiarism concerns. Some students copy ChatGPT-generated text without doing any modification. This is because some students are lazy and prefer readily available things. They copy and paste the content and present it as assignments or any work given leading to academic dishonesty and plagiarism.

Further, Superficial understanding. Universities and colleges students might rely on quick answers which may discourage them from deeper engagement with topics and limit the development of a thorough understanding of topics. For example, f students training to be teachers might be affected the most because if the lack deeper understanding, they might give their students myopic understanding.

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Then, Misinformation. Although ChatGPT is well trained, it can sometimes provide incorrect or outdated information. This act of misinformation may mislead students and they might have wrong information depending on the content. This tool should be used as a supplement of learning though some students rely on it totally.

Fifth, lack of skill development. Students may bypass essential skills such as writing, research or solving problems on their own if they lean too much on AI-generated content. Some of these tools cannot provide every content a student needs, for example in research at some point one is required to do experiments, observations and even interviews to get the required information.

In conclusion, students can use ChatGPT responsibly. Educators can guide students in using AI responsibly, promoting critical thinking and originality. They should use it as a supplement to learning and not replacement. We don’t want unskilled doctors , teachers, lawyers, journalists and more others.

Students should be mindful of ChatGPT’s limitation and focus on developing their own skills.

By Faith Oloo, 

The writer is a student at Rongo University.

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