OpenAI's 'Study Mode': Fighting AI Cheating with More AI
So, OpenAI, the folks behind ChatGPT, are throwing their hat into the ring to tackle the AI-driven cheating problem in schools. I mean, it's no secret that AI has made it easier than ever for students to, shall we say, "borrow" answers. I've even heard professors talking about how AI is changing the game, especially when it comes to writing essays.
Their solution? A new feature called "Study Mode" in ChatGPT. Essentially, it's designed to help students actually learn the material instead of just getting the answers handed to them on a silver platter. As they said in their blog post, the goal is to guide you through problems step-by-step instead of just spitting out the solution.
It's available now for users with Free, Plus, Pro, and Team accounts. And get this, they're planning to roll it out to ChatGPT Edu, which is specifically designed for college campuses. So, it seems they're serious about getting this into the hands of students who might need a little nudge in the right direction.
How Does it Work?
Instead of just mindlessly copy-pasting chatbot-generated content, Study Mode is supposed to keep you engaged. The idea is that it's like a virtual tutor, asking you questions and tailoring the difficulty based on your responses. They claim it will help you build a deeper understanding. It's designed to be interactive and engaging, not just a quick fix to finish an assignment.
OpenAI seems to be acknowledging their part in the problem, admitting that AI's use in education raises the question of how to ensure it supports real learning instead of just offering solutions. They say they've worked with teachers, scientists, and pedagogy experts to create this tool and keep it grounded in the real world of education. I believe they have to fix their past mistakes.
While I applaud the effort, the big question is whether students will actually use it as intended. The temptation to cheat is strong, especially when it's so easy. Those who are already motivated to learn might find it a useful tool. However, I read a recent study claiming that increased AI use while studying may lead to a shallower understanding of the subject matter. It's a complex issue, and there's no easy answer. However, any attempt to improve is a good attempt. And that's what matters.
Source: Gizmodo