During my first sponsorship meeting with Chris, we discussed the new tool ChatGPT and the effect it currently has on education but more importantly critical thinking. We both agreed that it is a very interesting application that provides many benefits for users looking for detailed and accurate responses to a range of questions.
I then brought up how users of ChatGPT could potentially become too over reliant on the tool leading to a decline in critical thinking as opportunities to solve problems would become limited. I think the process of solving a problem is almost as important as the actual solution. The knowledge and skills gained when working through a problem can become invaluable when facing similar or new challenges.
While taking Maths throughout my time at school, I always remembered that I was required to show my ‘Working Out’ when completing a complex mathematical problem. This would include a series of clear steps that showed how I was able to reach my answer. This was important as it demonstrated my reasoning behind the solution. Being able to communicate your thought process requires a level of critical thinking that I believe doesn’t exist when using ChatGPT.
This doesn’t only apply when solving a mathematical equation but also when completing any type of written work. The ability to properly analyse a question and produce a well thought out response after researching a topic is a skill that is not required or enhanced when generating an essay on ChatGPT.
ChatGPT may give you the ‘perfect’ answer but the steps you take to find your own answer may be more beneficial for your self-development.
Kunle Elerewe is a .Net Developer at RAPP UK
