ChatGPT is an insanely powerful (and potentially dangerous) tool, but it certainly isn’t the end of creativity as we know it. 

The AI chatbot was launched in November 2022, and immediately caught traction on the popular social media app TikTok. 

Videos of people typing essay prompts into the program—which then produces a well-written, properly researched essay immediately—were going viral around the world.

When I found out that I would be writing an article on ChatGPT, my initial thought was: “Well I’m going to make ChatGPT write this for me.” But after trying it, I realized that maybe it’s not as creatively skilled as I once thought. That being said, it is still a dangerous presence in the education system.

Due to how new the program is, many in education have been scrambling in an attempt to find a solution. 

Here are some ideas to prevent ChatGPT from dismantling the entire educational system…

1. Educate students on the importance of originality and academic integrity.
2. Set clear guidelines and consequences for plagiarism and cheating.
3. Use plagiarism detection software to check for signs of copying from ChatGPT or other sources.
4. Encourage students to use research and critical thinking skills instead of relying on AI-generated text. 

All of these seem like very solid, reasonable options, right? Well that list was created by ChatGPT itself.

English teacher AnneMarie Di Padova was unsure on how to counteract this issue, but she’s started with having open communication, especially with her AP classes. 

Chat GPT shouldn’t just be seen as a tool for students to cheat with, but also as a learning experience for everyone on how to navigate emerging AI technology. 

“Whilst the program is a barrier to critical thinking, and can’t be used as the genesis of writing, there may be a place for it in higher education levels,” she said. 

The idea that ChatGPT will cause the downfall of the foundation for writing at all levels and jobs simply isn’t true. 

The beautiful thing about writing is the authentic, human connection found through struggle –  something ChatGPT will never be able to replicate. 

When asked if ChatGPT would create less job opportunities, the program responded with the fact that “it is not intended to replace human workers” and “can free up human workers to focus on more complex and creative tasks that require human expertise, judgment and creativity.” 

ChatGPT is here for human assistance, and AI technology is only going to advance. So now it’s up to us humans to figure out a way to harness its power and not let it get too out of hand.