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Introducing ChatGPT: A Fully Automated Algorithm for Interactive Chat
As the name suggests, the easiest way to define ChatGPT is "a chat that allows users to interact with a fully automated algorithm." For example, if we ask ChatGPT to define itself briefly, it responds:
"Chat GPT is an abbreviation of 'Generative Pretrained Transformer', which represents an artificial intelligence technology used to generate text, converse with users, and provide virtual assistance."
ChatGPT is available on various platforms, allowing users to use it, for example, on a smartphone application.
In reality, this particular tool is not the first of its kind to be created and presented to the general public. What has made it so important and innovative, different from all the others? ChatGPT offers a level of complexity that has never been reached before, both due to the enormous amount of data it relies on and its ability to respond relevantly based on the context of the conversation it is engaging in.
ChatGPT and the world of education
Like all technological innovations, ChatGPT has also raised intense debate about its potential use and the issues it may bring. This mechanism has also been developed for its application in the world of education, with many voices opposing it due to intellectual property concerns and the accuracy it can guarantee.
Many influential figures are skeptical about the use of ChatGPT because they fear it may make students lazy.
However, like all other technological innovations, ChatGPT is a platform that can offer interesting advantages if used with awareness and intellectual honesty. This platform could, therefore, be a valuable study tool, although - as we will see - its limitations may sometimes exceed the opportunities it has to offer. Let's move on to present the pros and cons that ChatGPT offers in the educational field, remembering that we are talking about a tool not specifically designed for educational purposes.
3 PROs of ChatGPT in studying
1. The speed of ChatGPT in retrieving information
The main advantage offered by ChatGPT is its speed in retrieving information. Thanks to an extensive database, the platform is able to answer almost any factual question - speeding up tasks such as historical research, resolving grammar doubts, and finding formulas and theorems.
2. Using ChatGPT to study languages
An important feature of ChatGPT is its availability in different languages, correctly used by the program thanks to powerful algorithms that minimize grammatical errors. Despite some flaws in even the latest versions of the platform, especially in less commonly used languages, the program is able to understand and respond correctly in English, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese - as well as Italian. Engaging with ChatGPT in a foreign language can be academically stimulating, allowing for conversations to practice comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills.
3. ChatGPT as a study assistant
Several features make ChatGPT an excellent study ally, filling in some small gaps or training students' communication skills. Integrating one's educational process with this type of artificial intelligence can facilitate learning, speeding up information retrieval and creating a new, particularly interactive, dynamic space.
3 CONS of ChatGPT in studying
1. Still an imperfect tool
As useful as it is when used as a "stopgap" or conversation tool, ChatGPT still has several flaws. For example, it has been shown to often be inaccurate in terms of sources, and may even invent them. For this reason, as one progresses with their education, it becomes increasingly unreliable. The same lack of accuracy arises when it comes to solving math problems, making it particularly counterproductive for those who want to use it as a shortcut for completing assignments given by teachers.
2. A broad but incomplete database
As is only natural, the database used by ChatGPT is incomplete and therefore lacks various pieces of information. This also explains the lexical inaccuracies, issues with sources, and logical-mathematical problems. Furthermore, the data it relies on to interact with users only goes up to 2021, completely ignoring events and discoveries of the past two years.
3. Only marginally educational automated environment
One of the major drawbacks of using ChatGPT for studying is the fact that it was originally designed as a general assistance tool for a very broad audience. In simpler terms, it is not a tool specifically designed to aid in studying and therefore runs the risk of limiting the learning process. So, while its shortcuts made possible by automation may be enticing to students, they should be cautious not to use it in an unaware manner.
Algor Education: A better alternative to ChatGPT
Automation applied to studying is not limited to ChatGPT. On the contrary, tools like those offered by Algor Education have been able to create a study environment tailored to the individual student's needs in recent years, including through collaborative and multimedia forms. Through various automatic features such as quick maps, summaries, and speech synthesis, individuals can take advantage of tools that facilitate the learning process without encountering inaccuracies or outdated information.
Choosing the optimal technological platform to improve the study experience can make a difference in an individual student's emotional state as well.
In conclusion, the much-debated ChatGPT can certainly offer advantages in completing assignments, especially when it comes to easily solvable doubts. However, the advice is to prefer, during the study process as a whole, more comprehensive tools and specifically designed ones to meet the specific characteristics of the learner.
