Can Students Really Trust AI with Their Assignments?

AI, artificial intelligence, the genius software that could take humanity to the abode of stars. It could also be the very thing that brings its demise. Currently, we are taking a significant gamble in balancing technological progress with sustainable development. The recent rise of AI has everyone on the edge of their seat, including students worldwide. While some use it as their assignment helper for hire, the question remains- can they trust it with their homework? This article can answer any questions you and others might have about it related to their work.

Artificial Intelligence: Exponential Growth

It is a computing beast that now, can do more than just spreadsheeting or singing Vocaloid songs. With each update, researchers at the top AI institutes are getting closer to creating an AGI. It is an artificial general intelligence, something that can genuinely think on its own.

Some doomsayers say that when that happens, it will be the end of the world as we know it.

• They often cite crazy conspiracy theories like that of Roko’s Basilisk or even reference movies like Terminator or The Matrix.
• The other faction believes that if we achieve AGI, humanity could finally solve problems such as poverty and disease.

While its not feasible to theorize about a future that could be, let's first take a look at its complicated history.

History of AI

The concept of AI, as a machine capable of mimicking human-level intellect, is quite old, dating back to the earliest ancient myths. However, the formal study of AI was emerging in the mid-20th century, when scientists were developing the first electronic computers.

• John McCarthy was the first to use the term "artificial intelligence".  He did at the Dartmouth Workshop in 1956, marking the formal start.
• Nascent AI systems were focusing on symbolic or basic logic. These programs were capable of playing chess or solving math problems.
• Then came the first AI winter, from the 1970s to the 1980s. These early systems were largely unable to handle real-world issues and thus, progress slowed down.
• During the 1980s and 1990s, expert systems were in development. These used knowledge-based rules to solve particular problems, but the growth was still slow.

However, this all changed in modern times. Post the 1990s, researchers with enough vigour were investing heavily in AI. Especially, in developing new and fast algorithms. That brings us to our current time. It is everywhere and on the attention of everyone, especially students. There are AI services, such as a free paraphrasing tool in the UK. This tool can rephrase any piece of text in a matter of seconds.  More on similar AI updates below.

What are the Recent Updates in AI?

Recently, we have seen the following changes in the AI market:

1. Google made its AI models more accessible. It achieved this by making them faster and affordable. Moreover, they've recently introduced new features like voice searching with AI and advanced photo searching. Google is also currently rolling out AI tools for Classroom, such as NotebookLM, for students.

2. Meta's Superintelligence: They have been a major player in the AI field for several years. However, their focus now is on developing a 'superintelligence'. They're currently hiring the top devs from other leading AI giants.

3. Baidu's MuseStreamer: Baidu, a Chinese tech giant, has currently unveiled an AI video creation tool they're calling MuseStreamer. It targets the private sector, taking into account the needs of companies.

However, these recent changes, while unnoticed by the general public, hint towards something else. Students have been using AI tools to obtain answers for their assignments. Meanwhile, others have found it to be an effective tool for studying. Let’s discuss this in detail in the next section.

Student Assignments & AI

According to websites like Assignment Desk, AI and student assignments are a recent match made in the tech havens. AI tools like Claude, GPT, and Mistral AI have become extremely popular. The mixing of these tools into students’ academic lives has ignited a new wave of interest, as well as concern. While it can assist students in multiple ways, ultimately, its practicality depends on its usage. Let’s take a closer look at the potential benefits, risks and some expert suggestions of using AI for student homework.

Potential Benefits

• Overcoming Writer’s Block: Students can use it to overcome writer's block and explore different perspectives. These might not have been available to them through the traditional, lengthy book reading approach.

• Efficient Information Gathering: It is also a practical tool that can help quickly gather and sum up info from a mixture of sources. If done by hand, it could have taken hours of the students' time.

• Proofreading and Editing: Moreover, with AI, students can easily proofread their content. Specifically, when it comes to grammar or spelling mistakes and improving the flow of writing.

• Learning New Subjects: Additionally, it can serve as a tool to learn new and foreign subjects, clarifying concepts.

Potential Risks

• Plagiarism and Academic Integrity: Submitting AI-generated text as one's work is a serious offence. Moreover, it can seriously set students back if detected in their text.

• Over-Reliance on AI: Depending on AI tools for every little thing can hinder one's development of rational skill. In addition, it can be a thorn in gaining in-depth knowledge of the subject matter.

• Inaccurate or Biased Information: In addition, AI models are not entirely accurate and can produce incorrect or biased info.

Suggestions

• A Tool, Not a Shortcut: Engage with AI tools to enhance learning and improve work. What not to do is to replace the learning process.
• Always Cite AI Sources: If using AI to generate text or ideas, properly cite the AI tool. Do it as you would cite any other source.
• Verify AI Information: Be wary of the information that AI generates and verify its accuracy.
• Critical Thinking Skills: Don't solely rely on AI for study and interpretation.
• Follow Policies: Know your institution's guidelines on AI use in assignments and adhere to them.

Conclusion

AI has transformed the academic landscape, offering students powerful tools to boost their learning experience. However, like any technology, its use comes with risks. Students can greatly benefit from AI by using it responsibly and ethically. They must ensure that it complements rather than replaces their intellectual engagement. By treating AI as simply an Assignment Helper, and verifying the information it provides. Plus, adhering to academic integrity standards, students can unlock its full potential while avoiding over-reliance and plagiarism. Ultimately, AI has the potential to be a valuable tool in studies, but only with caution and care.