Teachers in Hillsborough County, Florida, report that they have noticed students using a particular AI software to help them with their homework. This online tool is an easy way to cheat on assignments.
ChatGPT allows users to quickly put in any question or task and immediately receive an answer or solution. Unfortunately, some students take advantage of technology by simply copying these responses for their assignments.
Using the given keywords, it is impossible to detect if someone has used ChatGPT for their writing as the bot produces its own words independently. Therefore, it cannot be detected through a plagiarism check.
Dr. Licato, a Computer Science Professor at the University of South Florida, is an Assistant Professor in the same discipline.
Dr. Licato says:
“It just starts displaying abilities we thought were in the exclusive domain of human reasoning, right? Converse in a way that seems natural,”
“The model is essential that they have to do all their reading and studying outside of class. Then class time is mostly for assessment, so tests, assignments, and you know, group discussions and activities,”
He says that while there may sometimes be extra work to do outside of the classroom, it does not affect their grade.
Ashley Durham, an educator specializing in homeschooling and tutoring, has observed several learners relying on ChatGPT to cheat.
Ashley Durham says:
“As a one-on-one tutor, I can immediately see when they take the originality out. It doesn’t sound like the student anymore,”
According to one expert, parents should step in now to ensure students don’t suffer long-term learning damage. She believes this could be highly detrimental and is a good reason for intervening.
Ashley Durham continues to say:
“The parents have to catch it at home. The parents have to see what your students are producing before it gets turned into the teacher,”
Parents should take the time to read their child’s assignments and ask follow-up questions. Discussing the value of learning with children is an essential part of their education and can aid in better comprehension of course material.
Ashley Durham adds to say:
“I have told them that yes, you’re going to get the right answer, but are you going to be able to take that knowledge in six months and apply it somewhere else,”
Most school districts within the Tampa Bay area have already taken steps to block the OPEN AI website from their students’ computers, as Licato stated that the applications claiming to be able to detect ChatGPT are unreliable.
The responsibility for preventing cheating lies with educators and institutions. They must take steps to monitor and prevent cheating, such as using plagiarism detection software and proctoring exams. At the same time, it is important to recognize that technology can be both a tool for learning and a temptation for cheating. By providing students with a clear understanding of academic integrity and the consequences of cheating, educators can help ensure that tools like ChatGPT are used appropriately and responsibly.
Source: ABC Action News Tampa Bay (WFTS)
