2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Examining ChatGPT in Educational Settings: Ethics, Challenges, and Opportunities

Presented at Computing and Information Technology Division (CIT) Technical Session 1

ABSTRACT
Recently, a remarkable advancement in the field of artificial intelligence has taken shape in the form of ChatGPT, a chatbot empowered by OpenAI's cutting-edge conversational AI technology. This sophisticated AI application has captured global attention thanks to its impressive capabilities. Nevertheless, it's essential to recognize that ChatGPT is not without its limitations and imperfections. Consequently, there is a need for a cautious approach when considering its integration into educational environments. Educators face a pivotal decision, as they must not only grasp the potential benefits of ChatGPT but also confront the challenges it presents.

One particularly pressing ethical concern revolves around the potential misuse of ChatGPT by students for unethical purposes, particularly in assignments, projects, and exams. Our primary objective in this paper is to thoroughly examine ChatGPT within the context of educational transformation, encompassing teaching, student learning, and the ethical dilemmas it raises. To achieve this, we used a case study methodology, focusing on courses within the field of Computer Science. Our investigation delves into the various ways ChatGPT can support different modes of learning and assesses its potential to enhance academic performance. We also seek to determine the extent to which students using ChatGPT may excel in their exams and assignments. We conclude by sharing the outcomes of our study, offering insights into the types of assessment activities where ChatGPT can provide solutions, and identifying areas where its support may be limited. This information equips educators to make informed adjustments to their assessment strategies as needed.

Authors

Dr. Mudasser Fraz Wyne National University [biography]

I hold a Ph.D. in Computer Science, an M.Sc. in Engineering, and a B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering. Currently, I am honored to serve as a Professor of Computer Science and as the Chair for the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at the School of Technology and Engineering, National University, San Diego, USA. Additionally, I am entrusted with the role of Academic Program Director for the MS in Computer Science.
Over the years, I have played key leadership roles, including Chair of the University Research Council, Chair of the Council of the Chairs, Chair of the Undergraduate Council Program Review Committee, Chair of the Graduate Council Program Review Committee, and Chair of the School of Academic Affairs Committee. My association with ABET USA dates back to 2001, where I have served as the Commissioner for the Computer Accreditation Commission (CAC) and ABET Visit Team Chair. Currently, I am honored to be a Program Evaluator for BSc in Computer Science and BSc in Information Systems.
In my academic journey, I have successfully secured various grants, including the prestigious Fulbright. I have contributed to the international academic community by participating in numerous Ph.D. Thesis committees and serving on the editorial boards of eight international journals. Furthermore, I have chaired and co-chaired 20 international conferences, led panel discussions, and contributed to over 250 international conference program committees.
As a testament to my commitment to professional organizations, I am an active member of ACM, ASEE, ASEE/PSW, and CSAB. I have previously served as ASEE-CIT Division Chair and Program Chair, and I am currently honored to serve as the Program Chair for the Software Engineering Division and as the Division Chair for the CIT Division.
Dr. Alireza Farahani [biography]

Dr. Farahani earned his B.Sc. (1985) from university of Buffalo and subsequently received his M.Sc. (1988) and Ph.D. (1993) from the University of Rhode Island. He completed his PhD thesis in optimal control of drug administration in cancer chemotherapy. Dr. Farahani's research interests are in dynamical systems, optimization and Algorithm design.
Dr. Lu Zhang National University [biography]

Dr. Lu Zhang is a Professor at National University in the School of Technology and Engineering at National University. His main research interests include science and engineering education, database technologies, data sci

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