A Trojan Horse or a Tool for Transformation?

Background: The AI Tsunami

It's undeniable: Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT have arrived, and they're not going away. Students are already using them. The question is no longer if AI will impact education, but how. 

Many are rushing to "AI detection" software. However, as the recent MIT Sloan article, "AI Detectors Don't Work. Here's What to Do Instead," clearly states, these tools are unreliable, prone to error, and can lead to false accusations of academic dishonesty. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, even shut down its own detector due to poor accuracy. This begs the question: what should middle and high school teachers do?

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This post will explore a path forward, focusing on creating a robust, student-centered learning environment that embraces AI responsibly, rather than fighting a losing battle against it. We must ensure our students are not just "AI-ready," but "future-ready," equipped with the critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills needed to navigate this new world.

The Core Problem: Beyond Detection

The fundamental issue isn't catching students using AI; it's ensuring they're learning. A reliance on detection software is a symptom of a deeper problem: a disconnect between assignments and genuine student engagement. If students feel assignments are meaningless busywork or that they are not equiped to successfully complete them on their own, they're more likely to seek shortcuts, AI or otherwise.

The MIT article highlights several crucial points, which I will expand upon here, drawing on my own experiences and observations.

1. Transparency and Clear Expectations: Laying the Foundation

Just as a school must have a clear governance structure a classroom needs clear guidelines for AI use.

• The AI Policy: Don't assume students understand the boundaries. Create a written policy, included in your syllabus and discussed openly in class. Be explicit: Is brainstorming with AI permitted? What about generating entire paragraphs? Many schools are adopting "traffic light" systems – a visual and easily understood approach, first proposed by Leon Furze in Australia.
• Defining "Cheating" in the AI Age: Plagiarism and academic dishonesty must be redefined in the context of AI. Students need to understand that submitting AI-generated work as their own is unacceptable, and that proper citation of AI tools is essential.
• Open Dialogue is Key: Hold class discussions. Explain the rationale behind your policies. It's about fostering learning and critical thinking, not simply enforcing rules. This builds trust and encourages students to become responsible digital citizens. I found that regular, open forums with students were invaluable in understanding their concerns and addressing issues proactively.

2. Intrinsic Motivation: The Heart of Learning

Thoughtfully designed assignments are the best defence against the misuse of AI. When students are genuinely engaged, the temptation to take shortcuts diminishes.

• Real-World Relevance: Connect assignments to real-world contexts and problems that matter to your students. Let them see the why behind their learning. This is similar to an "Industrial Advisory Board", for example, connecting academic programs to the needs of industry.
• Choice and Autonomy: Offer choices in project topics, formats, or methods. This fosters a sense of ownership and allows students to tap into their individual interests.
• Scaffolding for Success: Break down large assignments into smaller, manageable steps. This provides support and reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed, which can often lead to students seeking easier, less ethical solutions.
• Reflection and Metacognition: Encourage students to reflect on their learning process. This helps them understand how they learn best and develop crucial self-awareness.
• Feedback and Revision: Emphasize the learning process, not just the final product. Provide opportunities for feedback and revision before grading.

3. Inclusive Assessment: Equity and Fairness

Relying solely on traditional, in-class assessments like handwritten exams can create inequities, as the MIT article rightly points out.

• Assessment Variety: Use a diverse range of assessment methods, including projects, presentations, portfolios, and discussions. This provides a more holistic view of student learning.
• Accommodations are Essential: Remember that timed, handwritten exams can disadvantage students with certain learning differences or those who are not native English speakers.
• Process Over Product: Assess the process of learning, not just the final outcome. This could involve evaluating drafts, research notes, or reflections.

4. Embracing AI: A Tool, Not a Threat

Instead of viewing AI as an enemy, consider how it can be used to enhance learning, when used appropriately.

• AI as a Personalized Tutor: Explore AI-powered tutoring systems that can provide individualized feedback and support.
• AI for Research (with caution): Teach students how to use AI tools effectively for research, emphasizing the critical evaluation of sources. Tools such as Consensus, Elicit or ChatPDF are invaluable.
• AI for Differentiation: AI can help create materials at different reading levels or generate alternative assignments to meet diverse learning needs.
• AI Literacy is Crucial: Directly teach students about AI, its capabilities, limitations, and ethical considerations. This includes understanding data sets, machine learning, and the potential biases embedded in AI systems.

5. The Teacher's Evolving Role: Facilitator and Guide

AI is reshaping the role of the teacher. We must become facilitators of learning, guiding students in the responsible and ethical use of these powerful tools.

• Model Ethical AI Use: Show students how you use AI ethically and transparently in your own work.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest AI developments and their potential impact on your teaching. Following leading figures on Twitter or LinkedIn who stay informed is probalby the easiest way.
• Seek Professional Development: Take advantage of professional development opportunities to learn more about integrating AI into your classroom effectively.

Final Remarks: The Human Element Remains Paramount

The MIT article concludes, and I wholeheartedly agree, that the core of teaching and learning is the human connection. While AI will continue to evolve, it's the authentic, human-centered learning experiences that will have the most lasting impact on students.

By focusing on clear policies, open communication, engaging assignments, and inclusive and genuine assessment, we can navigate the challenges and harness the potential of AI to create a more equitable and enriching learning environment. Don't be afraid to experiment, learn alongside your students, and adapt your approach as needed. 

The future of education is a collaborative endeavour, and we must embrace it with both caution and optimism. The students themselves are often the best source of insight and the strongest advocates for meaningful change. We must listen to them, learn from them, and work together to build a better future.

Further reading:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) in learning, teaching, and assessment. (2023, September 18). International Baccalaureate®. https://www.ibo.org/programmes/artificial-intelligence-ai-in-learning-teaching-and-assessment/
• Exam preparation: how your students can use AI for studying. (2024, April 16). Pearson.com. https://www.pearson.com/international-schools/international-schools-blog/2024/04/exam-preparation--how-your-students-can-use-ai-for-studying.html
• ‌‌The use of generative AI in coursework. (2022). Cambridgeinternational.org. https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/exam-administration/cambridge-exams-officers-guide/phase-3-coursework-and-moderation/generative-ai-in-coursework/

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