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Pittsburgh professors are grappling with the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT in academia. While Carnegie Mellon University maintains its academic integrity policy, other local schools are working to incorporate rules for AI into their existing frameworks. The University of Pittsburgh and Chatham University are evaluating the technology to determine the best approach, while Duquesne University is considering a flexible policy that can adapt to evolving technology. Professors and administrators agree that AI is here to stay and that it’s crucial to adapt to it now. However, concerns arise regarding the potential misuse of AI to spread misinformation or replace human thought and jobs. AI tools like ChatGPT are large language models that learn skills by analyzing data in the form of text and generating their own text. ChatGPT became popular quickly, causing worries among experts that the technology could replace human writing and grading processes. Professors face challenges in deciding how much AI use should be allowed in their courses. Some argue that AI tools help students be more efficient in higher-level classes, while others believe they can undermine student learning by replacing critical thinking and foundational skills. Grading assignments is also a challenge, as AI tools can condense information and improve clarity. To ensure students’ work is authentic, professors must assess their thinking process in addition to the final written product. Techniques such as grading checkpoints and oral exams can help identify any unauthorized use of AI. Ultimately, Pittsburgh professors believe that AI can enhance student creativity, efficiency, and effectiveness. AI can act as an assistant to students, aiding in brainstorming, research, and marketing tasks, allowing them to focus on higher-level thinking skills. Despite the challenges, Pittsburgh professors are embracing AI’s potential to improve the learning experience.
