I’m curious about the perspectives here regarding middle to high school students using AI for tasks like creating essay outlines from prompts, rewriting redundant sentences, and summarizing texts for assignments. I’m new to using AI and feel quite overwhelmed by all it can do. What do you think is acceptable or responsible when it comes to using AI in educational settings? Also, if you have any suggestions for developing these skills without relying too heavily on AI, I’d love to hear them.
Why not have them do these tasks manually and then redo them with AI help? They can compare the results and learn to improve their own work using insights from AI, which is a best practice approach.
My students are expected to do the work I assign personally, not just hand it over to an algorithm. It’s not that I’m unaware of the benefits of AI tools in the real world, but if I’m teaching writing, I need them to actually write. There’s no substitute for hands-on practice in developing skills and growing in competence.
@Alexander
What’s your stance on spell and grammar checks then? Those have been around for over 15 years.
@Alexander
If you were once teaching how to use a slide rule, you’d now be teaching calculators or software like GeoGebra. Writing skills may evolve or even diminish over time; it should be up to the next generation to shape their own tools.
@JimGreenfield
Tools and skills are not the same thing. I’m all for using tools effectively, but they shouldn’t replace the foundational work needed to build those skills. If I taught weightlifting, I wouldn’t substitute the exercise with a forklift, even though it’s another real-world tool.
@Alexander
In a new world, you might use a forklift for some tasks and do your physical exercises separately. Exercise for health, not just for the sake of lifting. If writing remains essential, it should be practiced separately from achieving real-life goals.
@JimGreenfield
You seem to misunderstand the purpose of education. Writing in school serves to develop the brain just as weightlifting develops the body. The ultimate goals achieved through education are a testament to personal development.
@TeachTalker3
The analogy holds. A forklift is a tool for specific tasks; weightlifting builds physical strength. AI serves certain purposes, while writing strengthens mental capacity. Perhaps future activities like jogging or watching educational content online could also play a role in education, though they’re different from traditional writing exercises.
@JimGreenfield
My earlier point may have been misstated. I meant to emphasize that grades, as a reflection of educational achievement, showcase personal development. And while alternatives to traditional methods exist, they cannot fully replace the original activities in terms of benefits and outcomes.
@TeachTalker3
The debate about AI in education is valid. Students should have the option to choose their methods of learning, whether through traditional writing or new media like video creation, using AI as a tool to achieve their educational goals.
@JimGreenfield
Your argument circles back without addressing the core issue. Using AI to avoid writing is not the same as writing itself. Students need a balanced exposure to various skills, including those developed through writing, which are critical.
It’s great that you’re thinking about this! Like any tool, AI has its place but must be used responsibly. Students could indeed use AI to help get unstuck when making an essay outline, refine awkward sentences, or quickly summarize sources for deeper engagement later. However, it’s crucial they first understand AI’s limitations and verify its outputs. Integrating lessons on AI’s use in practical scenarios can be very beneficial.
@Lucky
Should AI contributions be cited if they significantly help in the creation of work? I’m concerned about how my teachers might react to seeing AI credited in my assignments. They might think I haven’t contributed much myself.
@ScholarSam
One practical tip is to use document tools like Google Docs that show revision history to demonstrate your contribution and how you’ve integrated AI inputs.
@ScholarSam
Always check your school’s policy on AI use in assignments. I allow it in my classes for specific tasks, with the condition that students explain how they used AI. However, for other assignments, I strictly prohibit its use. We also discuss the ethical considerations and limitations of AI in class.
@BookwormBard
For those looking to develop their writing skills without AI, I recommend resources like Stephen King’s ‘On Writing.’ Regular reading and drafting are also invaluable for honing your craft.
@BookwormBard
Thanks for the advice! I think I’ll tackle this assignment without AI this time to truly enhance my skills. It’s a perfect chance to practice revising and refining my work manually.
@BookwormBard
It’s better to explain how AI thinks you can improve rather than having it do all the work. Show your learning process, not just the end result.
@ScholarSam
You should discuss openly with your teachers about your intended use of AI and its benefits. Don’t let fear prevent you from exploring new methods of learning.