Academics raise concern over use of ChatGPT; RV University bans use

BENGALURU: With the artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT being hotly debated, educational institutions and academics have raised concerns over its use by students. Experts have batted for prohibiting its use because it interferes with students’ studies.

ChatGPT is used by students to answer questions in the exam, write assignments, and complete project works. As students began to overuse it, educational institutions have expressed concern that it would interfere with their studies. Some educational institutions, including RV College of Engineering, have already banned the use of the AI tool. The institution has implemented some rules regarding the use of ChatGPT on campus and has prohibited its use in the practical exams.

ChatGPT is the chatbot developed by the artificial intelligence research company OpenAI.

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is the chatbot developed by the artificial intelligence research company OpenAI. It was launched as a prototype on November 30, 2022. The AI-powered chatbot generates responses based on prompts from user inputs. Users have utilised ChatGPT for everything from help with homework to writing poems and even exams in some countries.

What are potential uses of ChatGPT?

Enhancing search engine functionality

Automating processes like disputing traffic tickets or bills

Creating software codes

Shobhana, MTech Data Science programme head at RV College.

“We focus on learning, and the AI tool interferes with studies. Students should try to learn concepts before applying them. The application will give answers, but if you don’t know the concept, it will be of no use. In engineering, first-year students should learn the fundamental concepts before applying artificial intelligence. Anyone can use ChatGPT, but it is important that students learn the basic concepts of computer science. Once they understand the concept, they can use ChatGPT”, said Shobhana, MTech Data Science programme head at RV College in the city.

Ajay, a student

“As students, we cannot use ChatGPT because it gives answers accurately. It affects our learning, and for this reason, they have banned it in college”, said Ajay, a student of RV University.