Generative AI in Real Life

Discussions play an integral role in monitoring your course participation throughout the term. You should check back to the weekly discussions multiple times throughout the week to engage in the discussion with your professor and peers. Participation is only counted during the week in which this discussion is assigned. Be sure to appropriately cite any sources you use to support your responses with standard APA citations. Answer the prompt question(s) thoroughly using a minimum of 200 words and respond to as many of your peers as possible – note that responses to 2 of your peers are required for full credit. Be sure to answer any additional questions asked by your professor in the discussion threads.

Many students, and people in general, are experimenting with generative AI (like ChatGPT) for school, work, or fun, but not always with clear results. Some say it saves time or helps them get started. Others feel it causes confusion, errors, or even dependency and the erosion of critical thinking.

Think about a time you did or could have used generative AI for something: a school assignment, a resume, a brainstorm, or even just asking a random question. Share the context and explain:

· What did you expect it to help with?

· What were the results? Positive, negative, or both?

· What kinds of AI use do you think professors might see as helpful vs. harmful? Why?

End your post by naming one specific risk or drawback you think others should watch out for when using AI, even if you found it helpful when using it.

Critical thinking is about seeing all aspects of a topic, so be sure to approach this topic with an open mind! This is a no-judgment space. The goal is to start thinking critically about the role of AI in our lives, as it is a rapidly emerging technology. Be honest, so that we can have productive conversations!