ChatGPT - Is it Cheating... 2?

Computer Classroom

So, in a previous post I wrote what I thought about using ChatGPT in work assignments and school assignments (actually more on just the school assignments). But now I think it is important to hear what ChatGPT thinks on 'ChatGPT is it cheating' or rather it's response (as I don't think it is quite at the thinking stage yet).

Here's ChatGPT's response:

The ethical implications of using ChatGPT or any similar language model for an assignment depend on the specific guidelines and expectations set by your educational institution or instructor. It is essential to understand the academic integrity policies of your institution and whether using an AI model like ChatGPT is permitted.

Yes. I do believe I mentioned it depending on what's allowed in the exam/assignment in my post. I wonder if ChatGPT used my old blog post (even if only in part) to create this response.

In some cases, using AI assistance for assignments may be considered cheating if it violates the rules or guidelines established by your institution. If the assignment is meant to assess your individual knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, using a language model to generate the majority of the content may undermine the purpose of the assignment and be seen as an unfair advantage.

I don't think it is merely a matter of unfair advantage but more that it is defeating the purpose of the assignment which is to assess your knowledge and to increase your skill in the matter. You know the old saying 'practice makes perfect'. While this saying is annoying, I have found that practicing a skill, while it doesn't make it perfect, does significantly improve your ability in it.

However, there may be instances where using ChatGPT or similar tools is allowed or even encouraged. Some assignments may explicitly permit the use of AI tools for research or assistance purposes. It's important to clarify the expectations with your instructor or refer to the assignment guidelines for any specific instructions.

I personally think it would be kind of fun to have an assignment where we can utilize AI tools such as ChatGPT. I don't think that's going to happen for a while though. (I also would feel a little annoyed if kids could just use ChatGPT to create their assignment for them while I had to do it manually. I'm in two minds about this. But I do believe that we will see more computer and technology in the classroom and by association AI.

Ultimately, the key is to maintain academic honesty and integrity. If you are unsure whether using ChatGPT is appropriate for your assignment, it is best to consult with your instructor or educational institution to seek guidance and clarification.

All in all, I think that was a pretty good response from ChatGPT. It would be a little alarming if it did endorse cheating.

While it doesn't seem like it was a huge change as it was occurring gradually, it is strange to note that 50 years ago computers were rare to find in schools but today in 2023 you would be hard pressed to find a school without one. It's not a matter of if but of when AI will be introduced to the classroom. It'll be interesting to see how the classroom will evolve in future and how it will incorporate AI into it.