Learners can use generative AI tools in various ways to enhance their educational experiences and improve their learning outcomes. Remember, learners need to know that when using generative AI tools, it's important to approach them as aids to their learning, not as shortcuts to avoid understanding or effort. Generative AI is not an excuse to not engage in active learning to build a better understanding of the subject matter.
Here are some ways in which learners can effectively use generative AI tools:
Using generative AI tools is obviously a big no-no and a breach of academic integrity. However, generative AI can help with assignments by
Generative AI can help learners solve problems, especially in maths and science, by providing step-by-step solutions, explanations, and visual representations.
AI can assist with research by:
Generative AI can help with suggestions for getting started and provide summaries of research articles but isn't really suited to in-depth academic research.
Generative AI tools can help with academic writing by:
Generative AI is effective when used at the start of the writing process - suggesting a structure for you to follow, creating outlines and for generating initial ideas that you can explore further through academic reading and research
Generative AI is also effective towards the end of the process where it can be used for proofing, grammar checking and revision suggestions. Generative AI should not be used for writing itself.
Generative AI-produced content can be evaluated for bias and inaccuracy and can be compared with and contrasted against learners' own writings.
Create flashcards for studying using generative AI tools. Input key terms or concepts, and the AI can generate flashcards with definitions or questions for self-assessment.
Generative AI tools can condense lengthy articles, research papers, or textbooks into short summaries, making it easier to grasp key concepts. They can also summarise concepts and ideas in simpler language
Generative AI tools can suggest relevant educational materials, books, articles, or online courses based on learning preferences and progress. NB, tools such as ChatGPT may not use up-to-date training data, so the recommendations may be out of date sometimes
Use AI-powered image editing tools to enhance and edit images for presentations, reports, or creative projects.
Generative AI tools can provide assistance with homework, offer explanations for concepts, and answer questions in real-time.
Generative AI tools can practice exams and quizzes to assess your knowledge and prepare for tests and exams.
AI can be used to create accessible materials for individuals with disabilities, such as generating alt text for images or converting text to speech.
Generative AI can be used to help create a professional-looking CV, summarise your experience and express your ideas clearly and concisely.
You need to be careful to check generative AI output and not enter it in a CV, letter or application form verbatim. Always read and revise first. You should also ensure that generative AI does not over-embellish or make up your skills, experiences and qualifications
Image source: Is it safe to use ChatGPT for your task? by Aleksandr Tiulkanov CC-BY licence
