Is ChatGPT a threat to the student-teacher dynamic-

Is ChatGPT a threat to the student-teacher dynamic?

By Sanjay Srivastava

The launch of ChatGPT in November last year created quite a furore, and currently, it boasts over 100 million users. It has undoubtedly emerged as a transformative tool in the educational landscape, providing students with a wealth of resources and personalized learning experiences. However, the integration of ChatGPT into the classroom has also sparked concerns and heated debates about its potential to exacerbate the existing gap between students and teachers. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) officially banned ChatGPT in schools earlier this year after evaluating its potential negative impact on children’s learning journeys. Despite these concerns, a surprising statistic from Forbes has come to light – a whopping 89% of students use ChatGPT, and they perceive it to be more effective than traditional tutoring. Addressing this contrasting scenario with AI tools, this article highlights some of the critical points related to the subject matter.

Diminishing the role of teachers

Since ChatGPT can be accessed anytime, 24×7, it has undoubtedly challenged the traditional role of teachers. With students increasingly relying on AI for information and guidance, teachers may feel their authority and expertise diminishing. This shift in dynamics has led to a less personalized and engaging learning environment, potentially hindering students’ holistic development. For instance, a high school student struggling with a complex math concept turns to ChatGPT for assistance. While the AI provides a step-by-step solution, the student fails to grasp the underlying principles, leaving them unprepared for future assessments.

Lack of human connection

The influence of ChatGPT on the academic landscape is evident in surveys, with 43% of college students admitting to using ChatGPT for assistance. Among these individuals, half acknowledge relying on advanced tools specifically for their assignments and exams.

However, despite its exceptional capabilities, ChatGPT lacks the ability to foster the human connection essential for effective teaching and learning. Teachers shape minds, instill values, and play a crucial role in understanding students’ individual needs, providing emotional support, and encouraging critical thinking. ChatGPT’s inability to replicate these human interactions is bound to create a void in the learning process.

The concern of plagiarism

ChatGPT’s ability to generate text with ease has raised concerns about its potential to promote plagiarism. Students may be tempted to use ChatGPT to complete assignments without fully understanding the concepts or engaging in the learning process. This could undermine the integrity of academic work and hinder students’ long-term learning outcomes. For instance, a college student seeking guidance on a research paper decides to consult ChatGPT. The AI generates a detailed outline and suggests relevant sources, but the student lacks the critical thinking skills to evaluate the information and formulate their own arguments.

How can we bridge the gap?

Technology can either be a boon or a bane. Instead of perceiving ChatGPT as a threat to the traditional teacher-student relationship, we should explore ways to seamlessly integrate it into the learning process. Teachers can leverage ChatGPT to provide personalized learning experiences, differentiate instruction, and offer immediate feedback. It is crucial for teachers to discuss the pros and cons of using AI tools with students to promote responsible use. They should strive to create personalized learning experiences that cater to individual student needs and learning styles, fostering a sense of value and support in their learning journey.

Continued initiatives are actively taking place in this direction. According to research by Education Week, 40% of teachers are now integrating AI tools into their teaching methods and prioritizing discussions about AI in their school lessons. To further facilitate this integration, institutions should prioritize enhancing teacher training and professional development to keep them abreast of changing technological trends. The key lies in striking a balance and creating a collaborative environment where technology and human expertise synergize in the education system, given that its impact on the student-teacher relationship is multifaceted.

The author is MD at Manav Rachna Educational Institutions and vice-chancellor at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies. Views are personal.