The New York (NYC) Department of Education has decided to block access to OpenAI’s ChatGPT on school devices and networks, Chalkbeat reported. Instead of adapting to new technology – which is here to stay – the Department of Education decided to block access to discourage its use. The reasons for the block are many, authorities are concerned that the information may not always be accurate and that students may be using technology to write their essays.

Since its launch, ChatGPT has had filtering installed to ensure that it only responds to safer requests. Although it prevents some of the abusive uses of the technology, ChatGPT can spit out incorrect information at times, Especially when it comes to math. He also thinks it’s still in 2021, since that’s when his learning period is over and he has nothing to do with the rest of the internet.

“Due to concerns about adverse effects on student learning, and concerns about the safety and accuracy of the content, access to ChatGPT is restricted on New York City Public Schools networks and devices,” said Department of Education spokeswoman Jenna Lyle. “Although the tool can provide quick and easy answers to questions, it does not build critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for academic and lifelong success.”

Since the launch of ChatGPT a few weeks ago, people have been speculating about how it and technology like it will affect education. While education departments may develop their curricula in the future to address advances in artificial intelligence, in the short term it seems they are simply going with the ban option.

While the block may deter students from accessing powerful AI at school or on school devices, it is unlikely to deter those on their home networks who have homework to complete. In the medium to long term, it would probably be prudent for education departments to accept that AI is here and adjust their curricula accordingly.

source: Chalkbeat