Using Generative AI to Support Your Learning as a Student

Understanding the Potential of Generative AI Tools for Learning

 

Overview: What is Generative AI?

Generative AI, such as ChatGPT, is a powerful technology that uses machine learning to generate text, answer questions, and assist with various tasks. These tools are widely available and can be helpful in enhancing your learning experience. However, to use them effectively, responsibly, and ethically, it is essential to understand their capabilities, limitations, and appropriate applications within an academic setting.

Capabilities and Limitations

Advances in technology are powering the development of ever more capable generative AI models. These models can help with writing, design, translation, and even multimedia generation. However, care must be taken when interacting with them and using their outputs. Using generative AI without proper attribution is considered a breach of academic integrity. Furthermore, generative AI models may make errors in fact and in reasoning; it is important to critically evaluate AI outputs for accuracy and bias. 

When Can I Use Generative AI to Support My Learning?

Always refer to the instructors’ guidance on when and how generative artificial intelligence may be used in course work. Instructors may opt to limit or otherwise specify when AI tools are and are not permitted. AI usage policies may vary from course to course. Always follow the instructors’ guidance and if you are unclear about what is allowed, please ask your instructor for clarification.

How Can Generative AI Tools Support My Learning?

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can help with various aspects of your academic work, from brainstorming ideas to clarifying complex concepts, provided they are allowed by your instructor. Here are a few responsible ways you can use AI to enhance your learning:

1. Brainstorming and Idea Generation

AI tools can help you generate ideas for assignments, projects, and research topics. You can ask the AI for a list of potential topics based on your area of study or for help in narrowing down broad ideas into more specific, focused research questions.

Example:

  • Prompt: "I need ideas for an economics paper on sustainable development. Can you suggest a few topics?"

  • Response: "Here are some ideas: (1) The economic impact of renewable energy adoption in developing countries, (2) The role of government policy in driving sustainable urban growth, (3) Analyzing green finance mechanisms for sustainable development."

2. Clarifying Concepts and Definitions

If you're struggling to understand a particular concept, generative AI can explain difficult ideas in simple terms or provide alternative explanations. It can also define key terms or provide summaries of complex readings.

Example:

  • Prompt: "Can you explain the concept of Nash Equilibrium in game theory in simple terms?"

  • Response: "A Nash Equilibrium occurs when players in a game make decisions that are optimal given the choices of others. No one can improve their outcome by changing only their strategy."

3. Study Assistance and Summarization

AI can help you summarize large amounts of information, such as summarizing an academic article or a set of lecture notes. This is useful for review sessions, preparing for exams, or writing research papers.

Example:

  • Prompt: "Can you summarize the key points of this article on climate change policy?"

  • Response: "The article argues that effective climate change policy requires a combination of government intervention, technological innovation, and international cooperation. Key challenges include balancing economic growth with sustainability and managing the global coordination of efforts."

4. Practice Questions and Self-Assessment

You can ask AI to create practice questions on topics you’ve learned to test your knowledge or generate flashcards for study purposes.

Example:

  • Prompt: "Can you create three practice questions for me on the topic of cellular respiration?"

  • Response: "1. What is the primary function of ATP in cellular respiration? 2. Explain the role of the electron transport chain in cellular respiration. 3. How is oxygen used during cellular respiration?"

Ethical Considerations and Academic Integrity

While AI tools offer powerful learning assistance, it is essential to understand the limits of their use, especially in academic work. Always adhere to the University of Chicago's academic integrity policies when using AI tools. Here is how to ensure you are using them responsibly:

  1. AI as a Supplement, Not a Substitute
    AI can help you understand concepts or generate ideas, but it should never replace your own thinking and effort. Always produce original work, and use AI tools for guidance and clarity, not for doing the work for you.

    DO: Use AI to explain difficult concepts.
    DON'T: Copy text generated by AI and submit it as your own work.

  2. Proper Attribution
    If you use AI to generate ideas, summarize texts, or get assistance with drafting, acknowledge this in your work when appropriate. Just as you would cite a book or a website, giving credit to AI where applicable helps maintain transparency.

    Example of Citation:
    "Some ideas for this paper were inspired by brainstorming with ChatGPT, a generative AI tool."

  3. Avoid AI for Personal Reflections or Creative Work
    Personal essays, reflections, or creative assignments are meant to express your unique perspective and creativity. Using AI in such tasks is considered inappropriate and may violate academic integrity guidelines.

  4. Check for Accuracy
    Generative AI tools are powerful, but they are not perfect. Sometimes, they can provide incorrect or outdated information. Always verify facts and cross-check information obtained from AI with reliable sources.

How to Use Generative AI Responsibly

Here are some steps to get the most out of generative AI tools while staying within ethical and academic guidelines:

  • Ask Clear, Specific Questions: To get the best results, provide the AI with clear instructions. The more specific your query, the better the output.

    Example:
    • Prompt: "Can you summarize the key theories of sociolinguistics in 200 words?"
    • Response: "Sociolinguistics explores the relationship between language and society. Key theories include Labov's variation theory, which focuses on how language varies according to social factors, and Gumperz's interactional sociolinguistics, which examines language in social interactions…"
  • Use AI for Revision and Refinement: AI can help you get feedback on your work, but you should always ensure it reflects your voice and understanding.
  • Engage in Critical Thinking: Treat the output from AI as a starting point, not the final word. Analyze and critically engage with the information AI provides to ensure it fits within the context of your studies and meets academic standards.

Conclusion: Leveraging AI as a Learning Aid

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can significantly enhance your learning experience, making study sessions more interactive and helping you overcome challenges. When used responsibly, AI can become a powerful asset in your academic toolkit. Remember, the key to success is balancing AI’s capabilities with your creativity, effort, and commitment to academic integrity.

For more information on how to use AI tools ethically, feel free to reach out to your instructors or visit the University of Chicago's Student Manual and Policies on Academic Honesty and Plagiarism website.