ChatGPT in Classrooms: A Double-Edged Sword

Abstract

This policy brief analyses the promising benefits and negative impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on higher education, with a focus on ChatGPT. It revolves around questions such as: To what extent should digitalisation become part of education? What are the threats to the right to education and data protection in times of digital technologies? How can digitalisation in education be regulated, and by whom? What should higher education do to address the increasing dependence on technology while safeguarding data autonomy and public values? Can current legislative and regulatory frameworks deliver enough appropriate and desirable guidance? The policy brief starts with an analysis of the initiatives at the European Union (EU) and Council of Europe (CoE) level. Focusing on the European higher education landscape, initiatives from several EU countries are considered. These analyses underscore the importance of inclusive decision-making processes that involve educators, students and other relevant stakeholders. This provides for a better understanding of the implications of GenAI and ensures that its integration into education systems aligns with human rights principles and standards. To make the tool serve educational purposes, the providers of ChatGPT and other similar technologies must collaborate with educational institutions. The objective should be maximising the potential of GenAI while remaining aware of the possibilities for foreseeable misuse.