ChatGPT Turns 2: What Have We Learned?

November 30, 2022, OpenAI launched ChatGPT, a conversational artificial intelligence tool designed to assist with everything from answering questions to generating ideas. AI is not new, but this technology was unlike anything else we had ever seen before. The launch quickly sparked conversations across industries, including education, where the potential for AI to support teaching, learning, and administrative tasks has brought both excitement and caution.

Now, two years later, we’re reflecting on what we’ve learned, the concerns we’ve faced, and why we at LM Squared Consultants have chosen to embrace AI technologies. 

Initial Concerns: Impact and Ethics

When ChatGPT first became available, school districts voiced valid concerns. There were questions about data privacy, content accuracy, and whether AI could undermine students’ creativity or encourage shortcuts rather than authentic learning. Educators also worried about how quickly AI would integrate into education and whether it would challenge traditional teaching methods.

We knew these concerns were crucial to address. We took time to explore the best ways ChatGPT and other AI tools could complement the work our teachers and administrators were already doing. Our approach was to view generative AI as a supportive tool that could streamline processes, spark creativity, and reduce workload, allowing teachers and administrators to focus on higher-level tasks and student engagement.

Why We Decided to Embrace ChatGPT

Ultimately, we saw the potential benefits for districts that use AI thoughtfully and responsibly. AI technologies have the capacity to:

1. Enhance Lesson Planning: Teachers can use AI to brainstorm lesson ideas, find resources, or generate prompts for writing and discussion, saving time and adding variety to lesson plans.
2. Support Administrative Efficiency: For administrators and staff, ChatGPT can assist with creating templates, answering FAQs, or drafting communications. This frees up time for direct engagement with staff, students, and the community.
3. Encourage Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy: With guidance, students can learn to analyze AI-generated content critically, strengthening their information literacy skills. In a world where AI will likely become increasingly prevalent, helping students understand its strengths and limitations is essential.

Reflecting on Our Journey

Two years in, we’re glad we chose to navigate this AI journey with a mindset of curiosity and openness. While it’s important to be cautious and ensure that AI use aligns with educational values, embracing ChatGPT has allowed us to explore new avenues for supporting educators and administrators.

One key message for any school or district administrator navigating these waters - you need a clear, common vision - and we're here whenever you are ready to take on that challenge!

So, Happy Birthday, ChatGPT!  You've rocked our world  - and we're so glad you did!