Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the education sector, with many schools around the world adopting its use to personalise learning and enhance student outcomes. However, the emergence of ChatGPT, a chatbot that can auto-generate authentic texts based on simple instructions, has sparked concerns that it could be used by students to write essays and term papers without detection from professors. In response, the Czech Minister of Education Vladimír Balaš is planning to focus on the use of AI in Czech schools and is considering measures such as holding round-table discussions with experts in the field.

One of the goals of the Czech Ministry of Education is to make advanced digital technologies available to all schools, and at the same time train teachers so that this equipment can be used effectively. However, one of the main concerns is the proper use of artificial intelligence tools and the prevention of their unauthorised use. The risks and challenges posed by AI technology will vary between different educational systems. In Czech schools, students usually do not write essays at home, which prevents the abuse of chatbots.

The effectiveness of strategies to address these challenges will depend on various factors, including the specific policies and practices adopted, the resources available, and the level of awareness and engagement of educators and students. While Czech schools will set their own rules regarding the use of AI, universities will also face the challenge of adapting to new applications such as ChatGPT.

According to Martin Bareš, chairman of the Czech Rectors’ Conference and Rector of Masaryk University in Brno, universities will require a response to the challenges posed by ChatGPT. The Ministry of Education cannot interfere with teaching at universities, but it hopes to provide support in finding suitable answers to the current challenges faced by universities. At Charles University, a spokesman highlighted that teachers will need to focus on an individual approach, use much more oral discussion of student work, and demand professional contributions in the work of their students.

While AI is still in the early stages of implementation in Czech schools, there is a growing interest in using it to enhance student learning and provide new educational opportunities. The Machine Learning Academy and Kiwi.com will be organising one of the largest European conferences dedicated to machine learning, artificial intelligence, and deep learning applications in Prague and online from 2-4 June 2023. This is an excellent opportunity for education professionals to explore new developments in AI technology and learn about its potential impact on the education sector.

In conclusion, the use of AI in education is both promising and controversial, and there is a need for clear guidelines and regulations to ensure its proper use. Czech schools will need to set their own rules regarding the use of AI, and universities will need to adapt to new applications such as ChatGPT. Nevertheless, the potential benefits of AI in education are significant, and the upcoming conference in Prague is a promising opportunity for educators to explore its potential impact.

Article by Prague Forum