Best Practices from Students on Using ChatGPT in High School
As a Study Assistant, Research Assistant, Writing Assistant, Advisor
While I have been navigating using ChatGPT from the perspective of an educator, I am also thinking about how students are using it. I (casually) surveyed eight teens on how they are using ChatGPT. Most of them perceive it as a game-changer in how they learn and manage their schoolwork.
It’s like having a personal assistant for studying, but like anything, it comes with its own set of rules on how to use it wisely. — Akira
Here’s a look at how students from different corners of the globe are using ChatGPT to enhance their learning experience.
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As a Study Assistant
Struggling with homework? ChatGPT can not only help solve problems but also explain the concepts behind the solutions, enhancing your understanding.
- Struggling with English literature, Akira used ChatGPT to better understand Shakespeare’s plays. The AI broke down complex language, making the plays more accessible.
- Chemistry equations were a hurdle for Fatima. With ChatGPT, she could grasp the concepts behind reactions, leading to a deeper understanding.
It’s awesome for learning tough topics, but there’s a catch — you can’t rely on it for everything. It’s important to try solving problems on your own first. — Fatima
Best practice: ChatGPT is beneficial for grasping difficult subjects. However, the risk is dependency. It’s important to use ChatGPT to supplement your learning, not replace it. Use ChatGPT to clarify doubts and learn problem-solving steps. Avoid using it for quick answers without understanding the underlying concepts. It also occasionally gives incorrect answers based on its current reasoning capabilities, so tred with caution.
As a Research Assistant
Need a broad overview on your research topic? ChatGPT is a great starting point for gathering initial information for essays and projects.
- For a project on the Amazon Rainforest, Carlos used ChatGPT to gather initial information and structure his research.
- Nia used ChatGPT to kickstart her essay on sustainable development in Kenya, gaining a broad overview to guide her further study.
It’s a great starting point, but sometimes the info isn’t super detailed. You’ll need to do more research. — Nia
Best practice: ChatGPT saves time by quickly providing general information. However, it may not always offer the depth required for academic research. Start your research with ChatGPT to get a basic understanding, then use more detailed sources like academic journals and books. ChatGPT is not great at suggesting references and traditional tools still serve that role.
As a Writing Assistant
Got a writer’s block? ChatGPT can help brainstorm ideas. ChatGPT can be a source of creative inspiration for writing and art projects.
- Faced with writer’s block for a class assignment, Veer turned to ChatGPT for ideas that reflect his cultural heritage.
- Olivia used ChatGPT to brainstorm themes for her university application essay, focusing on environmental science.
ChatGPT helped me come up with ideas for my college essay. I still needed to do the work to make it authentic.— Olivia
Best practice: If all brides and grooms used ChatGPT to write marriage vows, would their counterparts feel the love? ChatGPT is great for overcoming creative blocks and sparking new ideas, but originality and authenticity is key in creative work. Prompting ChatGPT with your own context and background makes a big difference. Use ChatGPT for ideas, but ensure that your final work is authentic and personal.
As an Advisor
Struggling to balance schoolwork and extracurriculars? ChatGPT can suggest time management strategies.
- Overwhelmed with his schedule, Liam used ChatGPT for advice on balancing sports and academics.
- Aisha sought tips from ChatGPT on efficient study methods during her exam preparation.
It gives general advice, but it did not meet my specific needs. — Aisha
Best practice: ChatGPT offers advice on study habits, time management, and general well-being. Students appreciated the general advice but adapted the suggestions to fit their individual lifestyles and learning habits. It gives prescriptive general advice, but it cannot replace personalized guidance from educators or professionals who know you well.
In summary, ChatGPT can be a real asset in high school, helping with everything from academics to personal growth. But it’s important to use it as a helper, not a replacement for your own hard work and creativity. Check the facts, put in your own effort, and use ChatGPT as one of the many tools in your educational toolkit.
Acknowledgements
Note: While the questions were asked in a casual setting, no real names of neices, nephews, and kids of friends have been used, and their parental permission was taken to cite their opinions.
