ChatGPT creator OpenAI encourages teachers to use its AI program in classrooms. On August 31, 2023, the company released sample ChatGPT prompts for various purposes like English tutoring and teaching critical thinking skills. Moreover, it shared examples from several professors using artificial intelligence for teaching.
Many feared artificial intelligence would ruin education, but it could enhance it significantly. Applying this technology allows teachers to impart skills in ways that suit each student. Believe it or not, AI has made learning more effective and engaging. Whether you’re a teacher or not, you must know how this technology will help children prepare for their digital future.
This article will cover some of the OpenAI’s examples of how to teach with AI. Later, I will share additional methods for various subjects like English, Math, and Science.
How do teachers use ChatGPT?
- Role-playing challenging conversations
- Building tests, quizzes, and lesson plans
- Facilitating language lessons for non-English speakers
- Teaching students critical thinking
- Improving other subjects
1. Role-playing challenging conversations
OpenAi shared examples from four professors. First, Dr. Helen Crompton, a professor of institutional technology at Old Dominion University, said she uses ChatGPT for hosting debates.
She asks the bot to act as a debate partner who pinpoints weaknesses in her student’s arguments. Also, Dr. Crompton commands the program to play as a recruiter so that students can familiarize themselves with job applications.
You may also like: How to boost learning with ChatGPT
The professor also uses ChatGPT to simulate a new boss delivering feedback to pupils role-playing as employees. Dr. Crompton said these approaches enable students to understand material with additional nuance and a new perspective.
2. Building tests, quizzes, and lesson plans
Universidade da Coruña professor Fran Bellas recommends schools teach with AI by turning it into their assistants. Specifically, they should use artificial intelligence systems to craft quizzes, lesson plans, and exams.
She said teachers should start by sharing their curriculums with ChatGPT. Then, they should request materials like quizzes and lesson plans that use modern or culturally relevant examples.
Bellas also uses the AI bot to help teachers ensure their questions match their students’ learning levels and sensitivities. “If you go to ChatGPT and ask it to create five question exams about electric circuits, the results are very fresh. You can take these ideas and make them your own,” she says.
3. Facilitating language lessons for non-English speakers
Dr. Anthony Kaziboni, the Head of Research at the University of Johannesburg, says most of his students don’t speak English outside the classroom. However, he believes they must learn this language to have a significant advantage in the academic world.
Kaziboni also claims poor proficiency could lead to misunderstandings. Mistakes in even the smallest details could hold back students from reaching opportunities and recognition.
You may also like: Schools struggle to “ChatGPT-proof” tests
He encourages students to use the AI bot to translate lesson plans and other materials. Moreover, Dr. Kaziboni suggests pupils use the program to improve their English writing and conversation skills.
4. Teaching students critical thinking
Geetha Venugopal is a high school computer science teacher at the American International School in Chennai, India. He compares teaching students AI tools to instructing them how to use the Internet responsibly.
Venugopal encourages pupils to remember that ChatGPT’s answers aren’t always accurate and credible. Also, the teachers asks students to consider whether they should trust these answers.
You may also like: More schools offer drone lessons
Then, they must confirm the information with other primary resources. She explains her objective is to help them “understand the importance of constantly working on their original critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills.”
5. Improving other subjects
Believe it or not, I explained how to teach with AI on May 11, 2023. I shared tips from other educators who use ChatGPT in the classroom. If you’re struggling to fit this program into your subjects, try these options:
- Reading: Encourage creativity by asking students to imagine short story descriptions. Then, they can watch ChatGPT turn their answers into full-length stories. This activity could help students express their ideas and create stories.
- English: You could ask ChatGPT to teach antonyms and synonyms. For example, you can demonstrate 10 words similar to “glee” by letting the bot generate them. As a result, you can expand your students’ vocabulary.
- Science: Turn ChatGPT into your assistant by asking the bot to explain specific concepts. For example, you can command the AI program to explain molality and molarity. Next, you may ask students to submit questions so the bot can expound on specific terms. Eventually, it expands the entire class’s understanding of the subject.
- History: Make ChatGPT mimic a historical figure so students can ask them questions. For example, tell the OpenAI program to pretend it is King Sejong the Great. Then, your students may ask, “What inspired you to create the Korean writing system, Hangul?”
- Math: Use the program to check their understanding of mathematical concepts. For example, it could explain parabolas and asymptotes. However, you should not use ChatGPT to check math problems because it is an AI text generator. Instead, use other programs like Microsoft Math Solver and Wolfram Alpha.
You may also like: Innovative ChatGPT teaching techniques
Conclusion
Those were a few examples of how to teach with AI. Feel free to create new methods and look for alternatives. After all, these tips may become outdated soon as artificial intelligence programs progress rapidly.
You must use AI in the classroom because students will grow in a world that relies on this technology. As a result, your adoption will prepare them for a digitalized future.
If you’re a student, you could use ChatGPT to improve your understanding of classroom topics. However, follow your school’s rules and regulations regarding AI usage. Also, learn more about the latest digital tips and trends at Inquirer Tech.
Frequently asked questions about teaching with AI
How can I use AI for teaching?
AI can be used as a virtual tutor, providing students with answers to their questions and feedback on their work. Also, you can use it to generate educational content like flashcards, study guides, and quizzes. More importantly, these methods help students get used to artificial intelligence.
Can I teach with AI bots for free?
Everyone can use ChatGPT for free, so you do not need to spend money when applying it in class. However, you can pay for the latest version, which uses the newest large language model, GPT-4. You can access it with a ChatGPT Plus subscription, which costs $20 monthly. Alternatively, try Microsoft Bing or Google Bard.
Can AI replace human teachers?
Artificial intelligence is not a replacement for human teachers. While it can provide valuable assistance and support, it lacks the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills essential for effective teaching. Still, online tutorial services using AI are becoming more popular nowadays.