New York City schools have taken the initiative to block access to ChatGPT, an AI-powered chatbot program, citing fear of its potentially negative impacts on students’ learning.
ChatGPT is a relatively new technology that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to create an interactive chatbot program. It is designed to help spark a dialogue between users and its AI-generated responses. It is currently used in many offices and other work environments, as well as in customer service conversations.
However, the New York City Department of Education (DOE) has blocked access to the program in all schools, citing concerns about the impact of such artificial intelligence-based technology on student learning. The DOE, citing research, believes that ChatGPT’s algorithm-based, automated responses could interfere with student learning in a number of ways.
First of all, the automated responses of the program could be misguided or confusing, causing students to internalize the wrong information. Moreover, students may become too reliant on the programmed responses, instead of engaging in critical thinking and problem solving. Additionally, ChatGPT could potentially create a “false conversation”, where students perceive they are having an interactive conversation with an AI, instead of a real person.
According to DOE officials, the decision to block access to ChatGPT was made to prioritize a safe, productive and creative learning environment for all students. The DOE believes that blocking the program is a way to protect students from thoughts and theories that could lead to misunderstanding and could inhibit their overall learning.
In addition, the DOE has advised educators to avoid the use of AI-based communication tools in the classroom. Research has found that these tools can create a negative learning environment, inhibiting students’ natural engagement with their peers and workforce development.
Thus, while the decision to block ChatGPT may prove to be a wise move in the long run, the potential consequences of such a move are yet unknown. It is certain, however, that the use of such AI-powered technology in the classroom could potentially have a negative impact on student learning. Therefore, the DOE’s decision to restrict access to the program was made to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students.
