As technology continues to advance, many industries, including education, are finding the need to adapt and evolve. In particular, the use of advanced AI language models like ChatGPT has raised questions about the future of traditional assessment methods. One proposed solution to the challenges posed by these technologies is to simply ban them from educational settings. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that this is not a practical or effective solution.
It is important to recognize that ChatGPT and other language models are not just tools for cheating or gaming the system. They can also be used in a positive and productive manner, such as to assist students with writing assignments, to generate practice questions for exams, and to help in creating personalized learning plans. Banning ChatGPT would deprive educators and students of these benefits, and would ultimately limit the potential of these technologies to improve education.
Banning ChatGPT will not solve the underlying issues that have led to its use in the first place. The pressure to perform well on assessments and the desire to succeed academically are not unique to students using ChatGPT, and will still exist even if the technology is banned. Instead of focusing on banning specific tools, it is more effective to address the root causes of academic dishonesty and to find ways to make assessments more meaningful and less prone to cheating.
Do note that ChatGPT is accessible as a programming tool and can be used on other sites, which means that even if a school or institution bans its use, students can still circumvent URL blockers to access the technology. This highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges posed by ChatGPT, rather than simply trying to block access to it.
Technology is constantly evolving, and new tools and methods will continue to emerge. Banning ChatGPT today will not prevent new technologies from being developed and used in the future. Rather than trying to ban specific tools, it is more effective to focus on developing a robust and flexible assessment infrastructure that can adapt to new technologies as they emerge.
Overall, while the challenges posed by ChatGPT and other advanced technologies are significant, banning them is not a practical or effective solution. It is important to find ways to harness the potential benefits of these technologies while also addressing the underlying issues that have led to their use in the first place. By focusing on creating a more meaningful and adaptable assessment infrastructure, education can remain relevant and effective in the face of rapidly changing technology.