Artificial Intelligence Can Actually Help Students

By Sarah Chu

“Artificial Intelligence (AI) can actually help students” –Tim Lovatt, Head of Digital Learning at UWC Dover

Since 2022, technology like AI and large language models have taken the world by storm (To clarify, a language model is a machine learning model for doing language tasks, e.g. conversating, asking questions, etc). AI has rapidly rooted itself into our world. In a society where education is the foundation of growth, it is no surprise that humans have adopted AI technology into schools. Schools have seen language models such as ChatGPT solve math problems, offer feedback, and write entire essays. Yet, the question of the proper use of language models in education spans a wide spectrum. Scandals such as using ChatGPT in university applications to supportive uses like detecting plagiarism in essays are prevalent in schools.

For this interview, we’ll focus on the impact of AI technology in UWCSEA. Initially, students were cautioned against using language models, particularly ChatGPT, for schoolwork. Nonetheless, AI is constantly evolving, and we must learn to adapt to its presence.

Thousands of Students across Dover and East interact with ChatGPT, Snapchat AI, Gemini, and many other AI applications on a daily basis. However, for teachers, parents, and students alike, the real question is how students and teachers can use AI effectively. To explore this, we spoke with Tim Lovatt, a physics teacher at UWC Dover and the head of Edtech at UWCSEA.

Mr Lovatt shares with us his experience with language models like ChatGPT, highlighting key takeaways. He emphasizes using ChatGPT to challenge your thinking, rather than simply giving direct answers. Mr Lovatt also discusses finding a fine balance of how to use AI effectively, detailing specifics of how to use AI as scaffolding for developing knowledge and comprehension.

Discover how you can harness AI for your personal benefit by watching the interview below!