ChatGPT Launches Learning Mode, Encourages 'Responsible' Use of AI

ChatGPT is rolling out a “study mode” to encourage responsible use of chatbots for academic purposes, amid a surge in academic AI abuse at universities, the Guardian reports.

According to OpenAI, the learning mode will be integrated into the “tools” section of ChatGPT. This new feature will not immediately provide complete exercises or answers, but will guide users to approach and understand knowledge step by step, like a real lesson, encouraging learners to truly interact with the topic and problem.

This mode also supports explaining complex concepts by identifying the user's level and learning goals. It also allows image processing, allowing learners to upload old exam papers for step-by-step instructions.

Jayna Devani, OpenAI's head of international education in the US, said the company doesn't want ChatGPT to be abused by students, and the new feature is a "step forward" to encourage positive use of AI in learning.

“We don’t think these tools should be abused. This is our effort to shape responsible use,” Devani stressed.

She also acknowledged that tackling academic fraud requires a “wide-sector dialogue” to improve assessment practices and provide “clear, transparent guidance” on the responsible use of AI.

According to statistics from the Guardian newspaper, in the 2023-2024 academic year, there will be nearly 7,000 cases of AI-related academic fraud in the UK, equivalent to 5.1 cases per 1,000 students - more than 3 times higher than the previous year.

OpenAI also said that more than a third of college-age adults in the US are using ChatGPT, and about a quarter of the conversations are related to studying, tutoring, or schoolwork, so this new learning mode is expected to make ChatGPT more active in learning.

OpenAI has now partnered with teachers, researchers, and education experts to develop the feature, but also warns that “inconsistent behavior or errors may still occur during the chat.”