The Buzz

In an ever-changing world, humans have begun to enter the next wave of technological innovation.  Artificial intelligence has been a factor of interest, enveloping the attention of information-seekers around the globe.  Sources like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude have compiled information from all over the internet to provide fast-paced, simplified responses from questions as simple as addition to the complexities of watch-making.  Through personalized, human-like responses, people have been drawn to the newest answering technology.

However, controversy remains in regards to the relevance of artificial intelligence in the school system.  Some argue that it can be a useful tool to progress students’ learning, while others criticize it as being detrimental to critical thinking and creativity. 

Research collected by College Board reveals that not only do a majority of high schoolers use AI to complete school related assignments, but the number has growth within the last 3 years, demonstrating the shift to introduce artificial intelligence in schools.  According to the research, about 69% of students have admitted to using AI to complete assignments, and the number is growing.  The ability to utilize AI as a lesson enhancer instead of information replacer is an increasingly prevalent skill in the adapting world.

According to a survey sent out within North Reading High School, a majority of students report using AI for assistance in clarifying questions or breaking down problems, with only 31% claiming to never use AI for school assignments.  Additionally, 73% of students admitted that they found AI helpful in completing school assignments, but only half agreed that AI should be introduced into schools.  This could mean that students prefer AI to complete projects and at-home assignments, but do not feel as though the technology should impact their schooling or lessons.  Some responses reveal a hidden frustration, claiming that AI should not be used by teachers.  Students felt as though artificial intelligence was taking away from lessons personalized towards students that teachers cultivate daily.  However, many more supported the idea that AI should be used as a tool to assist learning, not replace it.

Here at North Reading, students are not allowed access to any forms of AI on school-owned Chromebooks.  Mr. Sgroi, District Coordinator of Digital Learning, claims that “a lot of the ones we have blocked in schools is because they’re not safe to use, or have an age restriction.”  He emphasizes that there is a large safety concern in regards to AI platforms, such as ChatGPT.  “These systems learn from the information people provide, so it’s important not to share personal details, since that data may be used to improve how the system works.”  Sgroi explains that computers will take information given by users to learn and develop, so it’s important to resist providing personal information when using the AI.  However, this knowledge often goes unknown, risking the privacy of many users.

Eleventh grade student, Liza Sandovich, takes a different perspective.  She admits to using AI to help with schoolwork, and even argues that it is beneficial in most cases.  Sandovich favors ChatGPT, as it is “just easier to catch up again…. It’s almost like it knows me more.”  While this idea may leave many people weary, Sandovich believes AI memory an asset as a busy student who may be working on multiple assignments at once when the ability to quickly jump back into projects is a necessity.  She also feels as though AI is able to efficiently break down complicated material into simpler terms for her to understand, providing a vital tool when studying for difficult exams.  “It’s helped me improve my score a lot,” she claims, and has used it to “write every single one of my AP Stats one-pagers.”  Sources such as ChatGPT provide a personalized response to adequately assist individuals, which is helpful as Sandovich adds “I’m not the best in the class… and my teacher isn’t the best at explaining things to me.”  When considering the use of AI for cheating, Sandovich decides that when “you don’t even take the time to read anything or learn it, and don’t take the time to know what is asked of you, that has to be cheating.”  When students abuse the contributions of AI, it becomes dangerous for proper learning.

In regards to information accuracy, both Sandovich and Sgroi report the benefits of fact-checking information provided by AI.  Due to its inability to find new information, artificial intelligence relies on previously provided information, which can at times be inaccurate.  Sandovich adds that while it can summarize and break down key ideas based on research published by various websites, “it lacks common sense at times.”  Sgroi supports this, advising that “if you’re still verifying the outputs, questioning the information it gives you, it can be helpful streamlining your day to day.”  He cautions to never stop looking for biases, privacy of facts, and inaccuracies within the source.

Students and teachers alike can agree that artificial intelligence can be both a powerful assistant and a hindrance to learning.  When appropriately used to enhance learning through study tips and breaking down ideas, AI has boosted understanding of materials for students.  However, the need to check for inaccuracies with provided information, especially for highly debated topics or those with little research remains prevalent.

However, artificial intelligence is an imminent addition to the future of global technologies.  The need to adapt and learn to use these features is especially prevalent, as AI will not disappear any time soon.  In fact, Mr. Sgroi reveals that a class aimed to teach students the fundamentals of AI.  This course will build the foundations for using the technology, enforcing the ideas that AI isn’t perfect, and to look for inaccuracies and bias before moving forward with the information.  They will experiment with various AI tools that have been proven safe for school use.

Hopefully as artificial intelligence is developed and expanded, humans adapt with it.  With appropriate use and perpetual caution, robots may be able to advance the ideas and progress of mankind.