ChatGPT is an AI chatbot created by Open AI, an AI research company. It uses natural language processing to generate human like responses. Since it’s release in 2022 the use of artificial intelligence AI has exploded across many industries such as customer support, healthcare, and business activity like drafting emails or writing code and content creation. Education has witnessed a huge rise in the use of ChatGPT by students and teachers in schools and universities, by both learners and teachers. In this latest article we will explore what effect is ChatGPT having on students learning and the demand for tutoring help.
A visually engaging digital illustration depicting the impact of AI tools like ChatGPT on education and tutoring. The image includes a student working with a text book, laptop and their AI assistant.
Effects on Students’ Learning
Let’s start with the pros:
Increased Access to Learning Support
Before AI Chatbots and ChatGPT students could access the internet, ask their teachers/lecturers during school hours or even take up reference with a text book. After school some students have the support of a tutor. Now learners have this super powerful tool that provides detailed answers to questions within seconds. Whether that be an explanation of how to factorise quadratic equations in maths or help with how Shakespeare presents Lady Macbeth in a text extract, learners can now call on the support of ChatGPT.
On-demand access to explanations, resources, and examples, which can fill knowledge gaps quickly across any subject or topic. This makes learning more accessible, especially for those who may not have immediate access to a teacher or tutor.
Improved Independent Learning:
Students may wish to further their interest within a topic or subject or ask for further clarification to deepen understanding. For example one of our students used ChatGPT to ask “Assigning the numbers 1-5 to the following calculation ab x cde how can I deduce that 52 x 431 is larger than 53 x 421 without having to actually carry out the calculation.” AI was able to explain to the learner in an instant and with perfect clarity.Tools like ChatGPT encourage topic or subject. Questions like “Assigning the numbers 1-5 to the following calculation ab x cde how can I deduce that 52 x 431 is larger than 53 x 421 without having to actually do the calculation”.
AI Chatbots such as ChatGPT encourage self-directed learning by allowing students to explore topics and get answers without human assistance. This can empower them to learn at their own pace.
OK so we have a couple of positives but we can’t help but hear about the negatives of AI and how it may transform our lives into a future dystopia. So let’s see what the drawbacks are for students learning with ChatGPT:
Risk of Over-Reliance
Some students may find it all too tempting to input their essay assignment into ChatGPT and simply copy and paste the result. Such tasks set by teachers and tutors are there to help consolidate learning from lessons, develop the students understanding of a subject or topic. Should learners engage too much with AI and not think about the problems that they are solving or engage in critical thinking over dependence on AI will impede the students ability to expand their knowledge.
Teachers and tutors are advising their students, especially in essay based subjects, to test their work with an AI checker. This should help to avoid plagerism and guide students to sensible use of chatbots.
To summarise here some students may become overly dependent on AI tools, bypassing critical thinking or problem-solving and using AI to complete assignments rather than engaging and thinking with their learning material.
Varied Depth of Understanding
During a lesson a tutor can ask questions from the student to continually assess understanding and adjust their teaching accordingly. ChatGPT answers questions asked of it – it is unable to assess a students understanding.
While ChatGPT can provide detailed explanations, it lacks the ability to dynamically assess a student’s understanding and adapt explanations in the way a skilled tutor can.
Focus on Conceptual Learning
Whilst it is tempting to input a question into an AI Chatbot students may accept the answer without thinking it through. An advanced learner would ask further questions to further their level of understanding. For example, a recall of Pythagoras’ theorem may be helpful, however, they would need to know how to apply the formula. We asked ChatGPT “what is the formula for Pythagoras’ Theorem?” and the response was:
“The formula for Pythagoras’ Theorem is:
a^2+b^2=c^2
Where:
- a and b are the lengths of the two legs of a right triangle.
- c is the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle).
This theorem applies only to right-angled triangles.”
The response is very sound, however, students would still need to be able to apply the formula to any given geometric problem. Further questioning and reviewing of examples of Pythagoras’ Theorem would be advisable.
To summarise students often use ChatGPT for quick answers but may not always focus on depth of understanding of concepts, which can hinder long-term retention.
Effects on Demand for Tutoring
ChatGPT is proving to be a very capable learning tool for students so could it replace teachers or tutors? Let’s consider in further detail just how the the demand for tutors could be affected by AI.
Shift in Tutoring Focus
The role of tutors is evolving from providing answers to helping students interpret and critically evaluate AI-generated content. Tutors are increasingly focusing on teaching problem-solving, higher-order thinking, and application of knowledge.
Increased Demand for Personalised Support
While AI is good for general queries, many students still seek personalised guidance that caters to their unique needs, learning styles, and emotional support, which AI cannot replicate.
Decline in Routine or Basic Tutoring
Demand for tutoring for routine skills or straightforward problems might decrease as students turn to AI for quick solutions. However, tutors specialising in advanced subjects such as STEM subjects, A-level Maths and GCSE Computer science or exam strategies may still see strong demand. Hampstead & Frognal Tutors has witnessed continued demand for the Arts subjects such as GCSE English Literature, History and A-level Politics despite the rise in demand of more students taking STEM subjects.
Tutors as Coaches for AI Use
Some tutors are now helping students learn how to effectively use tools like ChatGPT as part of their learning process, ensuring students use these tools responsibly and effectively. For example, one of our 11+ maths tutors was teaching how to divide 6.48 by 0.6 using the method of multiplying both numbers by a power of 10. Following the lesson ChatGPT was able to produce 20 similar questions as a homework exercise in a matter of seconds. The technology is not only helping students become better learners but teachers are improving their practice with the use of AI technology.
Increased Focus on Accountability
With concerns over plagiarism and misuse of AI, some students and parents are turning to tutors to ensure that students genuinely understand the material and can apply their knowledge in assessments.
Conclusion
While ChatGPT can supplement learning and reduce the need for routine tutoring, it cannot fully replace the personalised, adaptive, and empathetic role of a tutor. The demand for tutoring is shifting, with a growing emphasis on advanced learning, critical thinking, and responsible AI use, rather than just rote learning or basic problem-solving. This suggests a complementary role for AI and human tutors in education rather than direct competition.
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