Zak's Weekly Musings (January 23, 2023)
Who is Scared of Chat GPT? Not Us! (Part III)
"Google it." Two words that have changed education forever.
The widespread use of search engines, such as Google, have revolutionized the way students access information. However, relying solely on search engine results can be problematic as the information presented may not always be accurate or reliable. As such, it raises the question of whether a more sophisticated tool, such as ChatGPT, should be the default resource for students seeking information. Let’s explore the pros and cons of using ChatGPT as the primary resource for students to examine the reasons for why it may be a more suitable alternative to traditional search engines.
It’s my belief that the shift from "Google it" to "ChatGPT it" could be the key to providing students with the accurate and reliable information they need to succeed in our classrooms and more generally in today's digital age. Do you agree?
Chat GPT vs. Google: Why Chat GPT is the Clear Choice for Our Students
Google search results have been manipulated by SEO farms to influence the rankings of certain websites, thus compromising the validity of many searches. Alternatively, ChatGPT provides answers to user questions that are independently generated and free from external influence.
There is no such thing as “digital natives.” Students do not possess some inborn understanding of how to effectively utilize advanced technology tools like search engines. In fact, study after study has found that a vast majority of students do not possess the digital literacy skills to make critical decisions about paid or biased results on Google. Studies have found that fewer than 40% of high school students are aware of whether the search result they select is a paid advertisement. Just consider what that number would be for our 5th graders.
ChatGPT can answer students’ questions, whereas a Google search can really only generate a list of web pages, many of which will not match the nuance and specificity of the question. For example:
A student could ask ChatGPT "What is the difference between speed and velocity?" ChatGPT can provide a clear and grade-level appropriate explanation complete with examples and follow-up questions. Google can only provide a list of web pages, many of which will be too advanced.
A student could ask ChatGPT "What are the similarities and differences between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?" ChatGPT can provide a detailed comparison. Google can provide a list of web pages that describe the two processes, but may not necessarily compare the two.
A student could ask ChatGPT "Can you provide a real-world example of the Pythagorean theorem?" ChatGPT can provide specific examples and explain how the theorem is applied. Google can share web pages that mention the theorem, but do not necessarily include real-world examples.
A student could ask ChatGPT "What are the literary devices used in Shakespeare's Sonnet 18?" ChatGPT can provide a detailed analysis of the literary devices used in the sonnet, such as metaphor, imagery, and rhyme scheme. Google can provide a list of web pages that mention literary devices in the sonnet, but may not necessarily provide a comprehensive analysis.
A student could ask ChatGPT "What are the key events and figures in the French Revolution?" ChatGPT can provide a chronological overview of the key events and figures, such as the Storming of the Bastille and Napoleon Bonaparte. Google can provide a list of web pages that mention events and figures in the French Revolution, but may not necessarily provide a clear and organized overview