The use of ChatGPT in English college departments has brought about a notable transformation in academic support systems. Students have found AI’s capability to supply immediate and informative answers to their questions highly useful. ChatGPT’s ability to aid in brainstorming sessions and suggest ways to improve writing skills has received much praise. However, the use of AI programs may be removing an essential aspect of the learning process.
Professor Jennifer Escobar, an English professor at Moreno Valley Community College, expressed her concerns regarding using AI-generated software.
“I don’t mind if students use it (which I tell them) for generating ideas, and in fact I model its uses in class,” Professor Escobar said.
Professor Briana Boykin, also an English professor at Moreno Valley College, explicitly states in her syllabus, “While I think AI can be helpful when used in appropriate context, I ask that you all exercise critical thinking and academic integrity.”
Other professors in the MVC English Department stress the importance of paying attention to critical thinking skills. AI must not substitute the essential abilities of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation that students must develop. Rather, ChatGPT should be used as a supplementary aid to prompt students to inquire, authenticate, and improve information.
Professor Jeff Rhyne, who also teaches English, is attempting, like many of his other colleagues, to incorporate AI in his classroom. Professor Rhyne wants to help his students use it responsibly. For example, he instructs his students to use it for citations as if they’re quoting a source. Meanwhile, Professor Dan Clark came up with the idea to create an assignment where his students use CHAT GTP to write a paper in the voice of George Orwell. However, he prefers that students do not use it. If they use it, like Professor Rhyne, Professor Clark prefers students in his course to use it to cite a source.
The current MVC Academic Senate President, Professor Felipe Galicia, recently highlighted the Senate’s efforts to develop policies that encompass both disciplinary measures and instructional modifications. Professor Galicia shared that when creating the policy, they must take to the English department for consideration what the policy will require, as well as what is best for the students. Currently, there is no policy regarding the use of AI-generated content. However, the Senate’s primary focus is creating a policy that ensures students continue to employ critical thinking skills while maintaining academic integrity in their respective courses.
