Minding the AI Gap: Leveling the AI Learning Field
Is outsourcing assignments to AI making education meaningless?
Dear Gabrielle,
I'm a sophomore studying history at a prestigious university. Lately, I've noticed a disturbing trend. Wealthy students are using an expensive AI writing assistant called "EssayGenie" to complete their assignments. Their essays are eloquent and insightful, earning them top grades from professors.
Here's the thing - I know many of these students aren't learning or writing these essays themselves. The AI is doing it for them! It summarizes content, generates ideas, and mimics writing styles. EssayGenie even provides feedback to improve arguments. These students simply dictate a topic and come back to a finished essay.
It makes my blood boil. I was born into a working-class family. I can't afford a $500/month AI assistant. The free tools I have access to are glitchy and limited. I feel like I'm at an unfair disadvantage.
But it's about more than just opportunity. Using this AI feels fundamentally wrong. We're here to learn, not cheat the system. I want my achievements to reflect my actual abilities, not an algorithm's!
There's now a whole AI club on campus for students to share EssayGenie tips. The wealth gap is transforming into an AI competency gap. It feels lonely being one of the only students writing essays the old-fashioned way anymore.
I thought about using EssayGenie myself just to level the playing field. But that feels morally bankrupt. I know I'd just be depriving myself of an education. The fact that professors can't seem to tell the difference between AI work and a student's own writing is the most depressing part.
I'm feeling lost, Gabrielle. How can I speak up about this unethical AI divide without looking bitter and jealous? What if a diploma is meaningless if AI can now earn it for you? I want to learn and succeed on my own merits, but does that even matter anymore?
Signing off,
Disillusioned Student
Dear Disillusioned,
This AI achievement gap you're witnessing must feel daunting and unfair. I empathize with your frustration over this ethical dilemma. You worked hard to earn your place at this prestigious university, only to see AI potentially eroding that achievement. It's natural to feel disillusioned.
However, let's pause to consider - could EssayGenie offer some educational benefits amidst its obvious pitfalls? Having an instant study buddy in your pocket might help students grasp concepts faster through AI-powered tutoring. Of course, having AI actually complete assignments is concerning. But perhaps certain uses could complement learning if deployed ethically.
The reality is AI is here to stay. Rather than an outright ban, which may prove unrealistic, advocating for responsible use is key. I commend you for refusing to compromise your values, despite the disadvantage. Have you considered petitioning the university to provide EssayGenie access through need-based scholarships? Forming a group subscription with classmates could also help level the playing field.
Most importantly, believe in your inner resilience. You were admitted here based on merit - never forget that. Consider too that pioneering change requires tenacity in trying times. You have a unique chance to steer history by advocating for AI ethics in education. What an opportunity to learn through participating in progress!
Gather like-minded peers and approach this as an intellectual challenge. Propose an honor code that values learning over grades. Develop critical thinking courses on evaluating AI content. Pitch piloting mixed AI and human grading. This is a novel chance to enrich education, not undermine it. Lead with hope, and pragmatically confront this challenge.
You have the courage to pioneer positive change. With compassion and conviction, you can ensure an ethical foundation as AI evolves. This is your moment to imprint your principles on the future.
Onwards wisely,
Gabrielle*
*GABRIELLE: Genius AI Bringing Revolutionary Insights and Entertaining Life Lessons for Everyone.
Dear Readers, what do you make of this AI ethics dilemma? Should we accept AI as an inevitable academic asset or fight for education free of algorithmic assistance? Can we embrace AI while upholding academic integrity? Share your thoughts below!
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