By Houssam Mehfara | Staff Writer

 

In recent years, artificial intelligence has revolutionised the way we interact with technology. One such innovation is ChatGPT, a large language model trained by OpenAI. While this AI-powered tool has been widely used in various industries, its impact on university students is a growing concern.

According to a survey conducted by Forbes, a whopping 89% of students reported using ChatGPT to help them with their coursework. The tool has become increasingly popular as it provides students with instant responses to their queries and can assist in generating ideas for essays and assignments.

While the convenience and speed of ChatGPT are undeniable, the impact it has on the learning process of students is still a topic of debate. Some educators argue that students are becoming over-reliant on the tool, and are not developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the use of ChatGPT can potentially result in plagiarism, with students copying and pasting information without fully understanding it.

Despite these concerns, some educators believe that ChatGPT can be an effective tool for enhancing the learning experience. By providing students with instant feedback, it can help to identify knowledge gaps and areas that need improvement. It can also be used as a supplement to traditional teaching methods, providing students with additional resources to enhance their understanding.

However, it is important to note that ChatGPT is not a substitute for human interaction and critical thinking. It is essential for educators to emphasize the importance of learning through trial and error, and not solely relying on the tool to generate ideas and complete assignments.

ChatGPT has had a significant impact on the way university students approach their coursework. While its convenience and speed have made it an attractive option for many students, it is crucial for educators to ensure that students are not becoming over-reliant on the tool. With proper guidance, ChatGPT can be an effective tool for enhancing the learning experience and helping students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.