Whether we are enthusiastic or reluctant about artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is a topic that must be acknowledged. Algorithms, text and image generators have made remarkable advances in recent times.
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ChatGPT, MidJourney, and their peers
These tools have already caused significant upheavals in the job market and within society. But what impact are they having on teaching and learning?
It is still too early for a comprehensive and detailed assessment, but it is already possible (and exciting) to observe certain trends and concerns.
As specialists in online training
We continuously reflect on these questions and seek to stay informed. Here are our insights, about a year after ChatGPT’s release.
Between excitement and rejection: AI sparks debate
As with previous technological advancements, history repeats itself. Despite efforts to anticipate changes, society is often caught off guard by major paradigm shifts.
Before the winter of 2022-2023, some media predicted significant progress in AI, but few journalists or influencers foresaw such a sudden shift (though Edusign did have a certain intuition, as noted here!).
In response, some were amazed, while others immediately feared the potential for uncontrollable excesses. The debate remains intense to this day.
Artificial intelligence in training: varied reactions
When it comes to the field of education and training, responses have varied.
Rejection
Some schools and institutions (or their staff members) have chosen to ban AI, as highlighted in this article. Detractors, especially teachers, equate the use of ChatGPT with plagiarism or cheating.
Acceptance
Others have adopted a more moderate stance, advocating for AI to be used under supervision. In this approach, trainers guide learners on how to use AI tools intelligently, turning them into educational aids.
Assimilation
Finally, some training organizations have fully embraced the technological revolution. From the very beginning, they integrated AI into their training modules.
No matter which category you fall into, one thing is certain: change is here, and it manifests in many ways.
Not everyone is excited about the use of AI-generated prompts or pre-packaged lists. Writer Eric Sadin, for example, voiced strong criticism during an intervention at RTS (Radio-Télévision Suisse Romande).
In his view, artificial intelligence poses a direct threat to humanity. He argues not for integrating AI into our daily lives, but for banning it altogether.
Could ChatGPT mark the end of civilization as we know it? This view may seem extreme, but it is what Sadin predicts; you can learn more about his position here.
How is AI changing the organization and monitoring of courses?
To assess the impact of AI on education and training, let’s first consider the perspectives of both trainers and learners.
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Learners (students, pupils)
AI is testing their willingness to engage in tasks, particularly when studying at home. They now face questions like: “Should I let the robot think and write for me?” or “Am I okay with submitting a text entirely written by ChatGPT?”
These moral dilemmas aren’t new. Wikipedia has raised similar issues for years, and plagiarism existed long before the internet. However, the accessibility of next-generation AI tools makes “delegation” even easier.
On a more positive note, learners are becoming more productive. If they approach AI as a tool, they can reach the essential points of their learning more quickly. AI can offer ideas or paths to help unlock creative or intellectual blocks.
Trainers
At various levels, including universities, teachers must now be more vigilant. They can no longer rely solely on anti-plagiarism software, even though some tools can already (imperfectly) detect the use of AI.
Classroom presence or video surveillance during remote learning reduces the risk of disengagement, while take-home assignments are increasingly challenging to monitor.
On the upside, trainers who are more favorable to AI see it as an opportunity to speed up lesson preparation and evolve their teaching methods. This could free up time for focusing more on students’ questions and expectations.
Learning and teaching: working with or despite AI?
At Edusign, we understand the concerns surrounding AI. These tools should not be used to encourage laziness or hinder talent development.
However, we believe that, like virtual reality in some fields, AI can become and remain a valuable asset in education and training. We’ve discussed this here, highlighting the personalization opportunities that AI offers.
What’s most important is to give meaning to the content and to create a strong, clear link between the subject being taught and the learners’ world and personalities.
Ultimately, students should never write just for “validation.” The essence of education is to educate, build, and shape minds.
Artificial intelligence is just one of many tools that can be deployed along the path to personal development.
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