Destiny
James
1. What are some
limitations of using artificial intelligence like ChatGPT? What impact might
this have on education and society?
One significant limitation of using AI models like ChatGPT
is their dependence on pre-existing data. These models generate responses based
on patterns found in the data they were trained on, which can result in
outdated, incorrect, or biased information. “They lack the real-world
comprehension and critical thinking skills that humans possess” (Choi,
2023). In educational settings, this reliance can undermine deep engagement
with material, promoting shortcuts that hinder the development of critical
thinking and essential research skills.
On a societal level, over-reliance on AI models for
information may unintentionally spread misinformation or reinforce stereotypes
if the outputs are not carefully vetted. Given the widespread use of these
tools, their impact could shape social perspectives, influence public opinion,
and create ethical dilemmas. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize and address
these limitations to ensure that AI serves as a complementary tool for
educational and societal advancement, rather than detracting from it.
2. Why do some
social scientists think that artificial intelligence (AI) is prone to systemic
racism and social bias?
Social scientists are concerned that AI systems can
perpetuate systemic racism and social bias due to the nature of their training
data. These AI models are trained on large datasets that often reflect societal
biases embedded in historical information. If these biases are not addressed
during the training process, AI can replicate and even amplify them in its
outputs. For example, “if the training data contains biased language or
illustrates patterns of discrimination, the AI may inadvertently reproduce these
biases in its responses, reinforcing stereotypes and potentially leading to
discriminatory practices” (Stortz, 2021). This issue highlights the
necessity of careful data curation, diverse input sources, and regular
evaluation of AI outputs to identify and correct biases.
3. If you were
responsible for writing a classroom policy on the use of ChatGPT for
assignments, what considerations would you include to ensure AI is used
ethically and promotes learning?
A classroom policy on the use of ChatGPT must balance the
benefits of AI assistance with ethical considerations and academic integrity.
First, it’s important to clarify that AI tools like ChatGPT should serve as
supplementary resources, not substitutes for original thought. For example,
students can use AI for brainstorming or generating ideas, but they must
critically evaluate and verify any information using credible sources.
The policy will also require transparency, asking students
to clearly distinguish between AI-generated content and their own work.
Furthermore, it will emphasize ethical usage, making students aware of the
potential for bias in AI outputs and encouraging them to critically assess AI
responses. This approach not only allows students to benefit from AI technology
but also strengthens critical thinking and responsibility in their academic
endeavors, aligning with ethical standards and educational objectives.
References
Choi, C. Q. (2023, February 9). Columbia perspectives on
ChatGPT. Columbia University Data Science Institute. https://datascience.columbia.edu/news/2023/columbia-perspectives-on-chatgpt/
Pittalwala, I. (2023, January 24). Is ChatGPT a threat to
education? UC Riverside News. https://news.ucr.edu/articles/2023/01/24/chatgpt-threat-education
Stortz, E. (2021, April 13). The future of artificial
intelligence requires the guidance of sociology. Drexel News. https://drexel.edu/news/archive/2021/april/the-future-of-artificial-intelligence-requires-sociology