Is AI Here to Stay?

We all know AI is here, in classrooms across the world, and it is not going away. AI has been around for a long time; however, AI use spiked when the most common form of it, ChatGPT, surfaced in 2022. Now that we are familiar with its use, everyone has varying opinions about it, including Bluejays.

From wanting it nowhere near the classroom to utilizing its tools, AI has brought about a controversy about how it should be utilized, if at all.

Sophomore Nina Deguzman is against the use of AI.

“Especially in the developing years, elementary and even middle school, AI hinders your critical thinking skills because it becomes a crutch that you just rely on,” said Deguzman.

As an elementary education major, the use of AI, or the lack thereof, is very important to Deguzman since she will likely encounter it in her future career, being in a classroom setting.

“The younger you are, the less likely you are to develop those skills when you have something you know you can use,” said Deguzman.

Not only will AI affect Deguzman down the road, but it also affects her as a college student.

“Now, in college, I just think it is kind of an easy way out, and since it is not regulated yet, people are just using it to write their essays for them, or do their math problems,” said Deguzman.

Deguzman does see the positive side of AI; however, in her mind, the cons outweigh the pros. At the end of the day, she wishes to be educated on the matter rather than utilizing it.

“I do believe there are benefits; you can use it to summarize articles or use it as a search engine, which I do think is valuable, especially since it is sometimes more straightforward than Google,” said Deguzman. “I probably would not partake in it but maybe I would check it out so I am aware of how it works.”

Sophomore Andrew Camic, who uses AI in the classroom, specifically ChatGPT, supports the use of AI but with limitations.

“I think AI in the classroom should be allowed to an extent. I think it is totally okay to maybe get an outline of some sort, but never take information directly from ChatGPT; that should probably come from another source,” said Camic.

As AI tools become more integrated into education, students are finding diverse ways to utilize them for academic success. Camic uses ChatGPT for tasks like outlining essays, breaking down complex topics, and expanding his knowledge base. He believes AI can level the playing field for students facing certain challenges.

“It is very accessible for some people who may have some difficulty getting certain information,” said Camic.

A professor of English at Elmhurst University, Muriel Wheeler, concurs with Camic, providing positive situations she has experienced with her students regarding AI.

“Students can ask AI to simplify the language of a given text, to make it initially more accessible to provide an entry to a text that might otherwise feel too daunting, and then the student can go back and read the original text with a deeper understanding,” said Wheeler.

With a neutral stance on the topic of AI in the classroom, Wheeler sees the overarching impact of AI in her classroom and its effect on educational institutions worldwide.

“I think flexibility and context are key. I believe the role of AI in educational settings will continue to evolve and requires thoughtful consideration on the part of both students and instructors, with each and every assignment,” said Wheeler.

For some students, the use of technology in education is seen as inevitable, with AI simply being the next step in a tech-driven learning environment.

Junior Abigail Gesswein, a student in favor of AI in the classroom, pointed out that schools have already embraced digital tools.

“I like the idea of AI in the classroom since it is not going anywhere anytime soon, and schools are constantly using iPads and laptops,” said Gesswein.

Beyond embracing AI for its convenience, Gesswein also highlighted its practical benefits for everyday learning tasks. She uses AI as a study tool and for academic clarity.

“I think it is great for studying, outlining, and quick answers to make things more clear. I use it because sometimes the directions for assignments are not clear or there is not enough information, so I use it for studying,” said Gesswein.

However, Gesswein also acknowledges that the ethical use of AI is crucial, especially as it becomes more common in education and society in general. She believes that understanding both its potential and its limitations is key to using AI responsibly by examining the various tools, benefits, and downsides.

“I would understand why a professor would want to ban AI,” said Gesswein. “But I think it is silly considering technology is heavily used in a school setting, so we should be taught how to use it.”

While students like Gesswein acknowledge the reasoning behind banning AI tools, they argue that schools should focus on teaching responsible usage rather than restricting access. Some educators agree, emphasizing the importance of guidance over prohibition.

Professor Wheeler echoed this sentiment, noting, “I think banning anything tends to have the opposite effect. If you ban a book, for example, that tends to make students want to read it even more. In my mind, It’s better to guide students through their explorations and help them think more critically.”

Overall, Wheeler suggests students seek clarification from their professors regarding the use of AI to ensure it is being used ethically.

“I would advise students to check with their instructors whenever in doubt about whether or how to use AI appropriately for a given assignment. These are exciting times, but information is power… Ultimately, what is important is not the information itself, but what you do with it.”

As AI’s influence in our society and educational settings continues to rise, students and educators both face the challenge of navigating its complexities. While opinions on its use vary, the consensus among students and professors alike is that guidance and understanding are crucial.