College Leadership

Hey Chat GPT...

By Andrew Balkwill Email this article

...please finish this building.

The day may come when AI can build a structure as impressive as our exciting new Arts and Sports Precinct – but it’s not here yet!

Still, the modern world is evolving at a breathtaking pace. So too is the dynamic field of education and it will continue to evolve to meet the needs of our changing world. The jobs of the future will require us to look ahead and adapt to technological advancements as well as embrace them.  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one such advancement that holds tremendous potential for revolutionising learning and providing new tools and resources.

Educational systems around the world – including the International Baccalaureate (IB) and SACE Board here in South Australia – have recognised the value of consistent practice and success criteria across subjects. AI can support students in achieving their goals by providing personalised tips and guidance. When teachers embrace AI tools and incorporate them into their teaching practices, students benefit from their expertise.

So, what’s the big deal with AI?

In the educational world, the arguments for and against the use of AI essentially come back to a single theme – the importance, purpose and value of learning.  How do our students learn?  How do they grow/develop? And how can they demonstrate or validate their learning?

The College has two important statements or policies in this space.

1. Digital Citizenship is essential in the AI era, as students need to navigate the digital landscape ethically and responsibly. Digital citizenship is the effective, safe, responsible and ethical use of technology and the internet, including social media, email, and all forms of online communication in our personal, academic and professional lives. It is important students are aware of biases in AI systems, and even more important they think critically, and creatively to stay ahead of and apart from AI software.  Helping them understand ways of learning, and their gifts, empowers them to shape AI tools and technologies for the benefit of society.
2. Maintaining Academic Integrity is crucial when using AI tools. While the IB acknowledges AI developments, it also emphasises adherence to integrity guidelines. Educators need to educate students on responsible AI use, promote critical analysis, and ensure ethical implementation. Here is a guide to AI in relation to SACE, IB MYP and IB DP.

The IB's emphasis on ongoing learning and skills development positions it well in the AI era. By integrating AI, additional resources, personalised support, and skill development opportunities are provided, which serve to enhance the learning experience.

The fact remains that learning something new, or refining a skill, takes time, practice and effort. Some students may need assistance in understanding this more than others.  Submitting someone else’s work (including ChatGPT) is more than plagiarism. It denies students the opportunity to learn the skills that will help them become citizens and leaders of the future.  Skills like critical and creative thinking, as well as learning self-regulation and the modulation of one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, are key in the pursuit of long term goals.

A key difference between AI and humans is that we possess the ability to think about our thinking. In the ‘Mercedes way’, our teachers are rethinking the design of learning tasks and shaping the learning experience to focus on the learning process rather than just assignment outcomes. Incorporating check points, witnessing work, and understanding each student's capabilities provide authentic evidence of learning.  By addressing concerns and ensuring user-friendly experiences, educators can alleviate fears of cheating or overreliance on AI. Educating students on responsible AI use and emphasising their active involvement in the learning process fosters a positive learning environment. Although early days, AI tools are being seen as partners, encouraging critical thinking and creativity, rather than shortcuts.

And for those of you who read this hoping for news on our building project...I have some.  Despite heavy rains we’re currently on track to be in our new facility in February 2024!