Harvard University is planning to use an AI chatbot as a computer science teacher for its flagship CS50 course. The AI teacher, which is expected to be based on OpenAI’s GPT 3.5 or GPT 4 models, will be available to students starting in September. The chatbot will provide personalized support and feedback to students, helping them with coding and finding bugs in their code. The use of AI tools in education has been growing in popularity, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT becoming one of the fastest-growing apps. However, there are challenges related to accuracy and reliance on AI, and students are encouraged to think critically when using these tools.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard’s new computer science teacher | Introduction of AI | Increased use of AI in education | Desire for personalized learning |
| AI chatbot used as instructor on CS50 course | Integration of AI | AI becoming a common teaching tool | Advancements in AI technology |
| AI teacher based on OpenAI’s GPT models | Improvement in AI | More advanced and capable AI | Development of AI models |
| AI tool offers feedback and bug detection | Enhanced learning | Improved coding and debugging skills | Need for personalized and timely feedback |
| AI tools gaining popularity | Increased use of AI | Widespread adoption of AI tools | Recognition of AI’s potential benefits |
| Google’s Bard can write and execute code | Advancement in AI | AI systems with deeper problem-solving abilities | Improvement of generative AI systems |
| Accuracy and AI “hallucinations” | Limitations of AI | Improved accuracy and reliability | Ongoing refinement and development of AI |
| Students advised to think critically | Mindset shift | Emphasis on critical thinking skills | Awareness of AI limitations and biases |
| Continuous improvement through feedback | Continuous improvement | AI tools that evolve and improve | Feedback from students and teachers |