As the world becomes increasingly digital, it is no surprise that technology is starting to play a greater role in education. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), many educators and students are now exploring how this technology can be harnessed to create more personalised and effective learning experiences.
One of the most promising applications of AI in education is through ChatGPT, a large language model trained by OpenAI that is capable of generating human-like responses to questions and prompts. ChatGPT can be used in a vast number of ways.
For learners, it has the potential to support language learning, create customised study plans, provide test preparation and so much more. While there are concerns about the potential for cheating and lack of critical thinking, this intelligent software (and other AI tools like it) is a powerful tool for creating effective learning experiences.
Using ChatGPT for language learning
ChatGPT has shown great potential in its ability to facilitate language learning. The model can generate prompts and activities that are tailored to the individual learner’s level, interests and learning goals.
It can generate prompts that encourage learners to practise their vocabulary by suggesting words and phrases related to their favourite hobbies or pastimes. It can also generate conversation prompts that simulate real-life situations, such as ordering food at a restaurant or asking for directions.
For example, users can ask ChatGPT to provide a list of Afrikaans words to describe people’s personalities (adjectives) with discussion questions to help practice these words.
Here’s what the software produced:
- Avontuurlustig – adventurous
- Invoelend – empathetic
- Optimisties – optimistic
- Entoesiasties – enthusiastic
- Liefdevol – loving
- Rustig – calm
- Watter avontuurlustige aktiwiteite wil jy graag probeer?
- Hoe dink jy kan empatie jou help in jou verhoudings met ander?
- Hoekom dink jy dat ‘n optimistiese houding voordelig kan wees in die lewe?
- Wat is sommige dinge waaroor jy entoesiasties is en hoe wys jy jou entoesiasme?
- Op watter maniere kan jy liefde aan die mense in jou lewe wys?
- Wat is sommige strategieë wat jy kan gebruik om rustig te bly in stresvolle situasies?
Another way ChatGPT can support language learners is by generating writing prompts that encourage learners to practise their grammar and sentence structure. For example, learners can be prompted to write a short paragraph describing their daily routine and ChatGPT can provide feedback and suggestions for improvement. This type of personalised writing practice can be especially beneficial for learners who are struggling with specific areas of language learning.
Customising study plans with ChatGPT
In addition to supporting language learning, ChatGPT can also be used to create customised study schedules. By inputting information, such as the learner’s current level and goals, ChatGPT can generate a personalised plan that is tailored to the student’s individual needs. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle to organise their study time or who need extra support to achieve their learning goals.
Study plan prompts could include specific topics to study, suggested resources to use and daily or weekly study goals. For example, ChatGPT might suggest that a learner studying biology should focus on topics such as cellular biology, genetics and ecology, and provide links to relevant textbooks, articles and videos. It might also suggest that the learner set a daily goal of studying for one hour per day and taking notes on the material. For example:
Monday:
- Video lesson on the structure of cells: “Introduction to Cells” by Crash Course Biology on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IlzKri08kk)
- Quiz on the structure of cells: “Cell Structure and Function Quiz” on Quizlet (https://quizlet.com/342032410/cell-structure-and-function-quiz-flash-cards/)
Tuesday:
- Chapter on genetics: Chapter 11, “Introduction to Genetics,” in “Biology” by Miller and Levine
- Online flashcards for genetics: “Genetics Vocabulary” on Quizlet (https://quizlet.com/160482228/genetics-vocabulary-flash-cards/)
Wednesday:
- Video lesson on ecology and ecosystems: “Ecosystem Ecology: Links in the Chain” by Bozeman Science on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU6D5V-_V1k)
- Quiz on ecology and ecosystems: “Ecology Quiz” on Quizlet (https://quizlet.com/23957642/ecology-quiz-flash-cards/)
Thursday:
- Biology review app: “AP Biology Prep” by Varsity Tutors (available on iOS and Android)
Friday:
- Chapter on human biology: Chapter 34, “Circulatory and Respiratory Systems,” in “Biology” by Miller and Levine.
Saturday:
- Biology review app: “AP Biology Prep” by Varsity Tutors (available on iOS and Android)
Sunday:
- Practice test: “Biology Test Prep: Multiple Choice” on Study.com
ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for learners who are looking for a personalised and effective way to create and stick to a study plan. By generating customised prompts and suggestions, it can help learners stay motivated, organised and on track to achieving their learning goals.
Test preparation with ChatGPT
ChatGPT can provide a level of support for parents who may not have the knowledge or time to assist their children with homework or exam preparation. Test preparation can be a daunting task, especially for those who struggle with a particular subject or lack access to resources.
However, this software can provide support in the form of customised test preparation tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.Here are a few examples of prompts that ChatGPT could generate for test preparation:
Maths prompts:
- Generate 20 practice algebra problems at a difficulty level of intermediate to advanced.
- Provide 10 geometry problems related to calculating the area and volume of shapes.
- Generate a set of trigonometry problems with angles ranging from 30 to 90 degrees.
Essay questions:
- Generate a list of five potential essay questions for a history exam on the American Civil War.
- Provide a list of six potential essay questions for a literature exam on a particular book or author.
- Generate three argumentative essay topics related to current events or controversial issues.
Vocabulary lists:
- Provide a list of 20 advanced vocabulary words with their definitions for a student preparing for the GRE exam.
- Generate a set of ten medical vocabulary words and their definitions for a student preparing for a healthcare certification exam.
- Provide a list of 15 words with their synonyms and antonyms for a student preparing for a language exam.
Revolutionising learning with AI
ChatGPT is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance the learning experience. It provides a personalised approach to learning that can help students achieve their goals. Among many other things, it can support language learning, help create customised study plans and aid in test preparation. As AI continues to develop, we can expect to see even more exciting innovations that have the potential to help students understand and master the world around them.
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