Can generative artificial intelligence take over the work done by journalists and illustrators? EM experimented with ChatGPT and Midjourney. This article was written entirely by ChatGPT 3.5 based on an automatically generated transcript of an interview about ErasmusX with programme director Vanessa Abel. EM has added sub-headings to the article to make it easier to read.
While this article does not contain any major factual inaccuracies, there are many issues that should be noted. A description of how EM approached this experiment and a reflection on the results can be found here.
“Erasmus X is essentially an innovation lab where we investigate interesting developments and then integrate them into curricula. We examine what could have an impact on education and devise new educational concepts accordingly.”
ChatGPT
In a recent interview, Vanessa Abel unveiled some exciting projects and initiatives that Erasmus X is currently exploring. A notable example is the experiment with ChatGPT, an innovative technology that has the potential to reshape the educational landscape.
“Last October, we began experimenting with ChatGPT, quickly realizing its potential to influence education. When it went viral in December, we recognized the impact and started working on workshops for both students and teachers.”
The transcription program Amberscript made spelling errors and sometimes misunderstood the words being said: at various points, ChatGPT was spelled ‘Chai BT’, ‘Chai tea’, ‘Czech pity’ and ‘Chachapiti’. These terms were entered into ChatGPT in the hope that the bot would recognise them as mistakes based on the context and then correct them. That did not happen: the original version of the text still included ‘Chai BT’. In the interest of legibility and comprehensibility, EM has corrected errors of this kind.
ChatGPT also introduced new errors, in the form of adjectives like ‘enthusiastic’, ‘fascinating’ and ‘refreshing’. The bot added these words itself. They do not occur in the transcript and cannot necessarily be logically derived from it.
VR Experience
Another intriguing project is the development of a VR experience to engage students in real-world scenarios, such as psychology students interacting with patients with various psychological disorders in a virtual environment.
“We want to expose students to situations where they can apply their theoretical knowledge. Imagine a psychology student using VR to interact with a schizophrenic patient. It’s a way to enrich the learning experience and observe how students respond to different situations.”
The HefHouse Project
In addition to technological innovations, Erasmus X also emphasizes social innovation. They are involved in projects like the Hef House, where students collaborate with local residents to devise solutions for societal challenges.
“With the Hef House project, we go into the neighborhood and work with local communities to find solutions to issues specific to that area. It’s a way to make students aware of their societal impact while gaining practical experience simultaneously.”
Ace Yourself
An exciting forward-looking app called “Ace Yourself” is also set to be launched. This app helps high school and college students prepare for academic life by teaching 20 key skills, ranging from communication to critical thinking.
“The Ace Yourself app is designed to prepare young students for academic life. They receive tips, tricks, and even feedback on their writing and communication skills. It’s an accessible way to get them ready for their further education.”
Innovation Culture Erasmus X collaborates closely with faculties, researchers, and other stakeholders to foster an innovation culture and enhance the educational landscape. By continuously experimenting with new ideas and technologies, Erasmus X remains a catalyst for positive change in higher education.
Innovation Culture
Erasmus X werkt nauw samen met faculteiten, onderzoekers en andere belanghebbenden om de innovatiecultuur te bevorderen en het onderwijslandschap te verbeteren. Door te blijven experimenteren met nieuwe ideeën en technologieën, blijft Erasmus X een katalysator voor positieve verandering in het hoger onderwijs.
“ChatGPT did a good job of recounting what I said”, concludes Vanessa Abel after reading the piece. “One thing I would change is to refine the nuances. For example: in the phrase ‘…projects and initiatives that Erasmus X is currently exploring’, I’d replace the word ‘exploring’ with ‘developing further’.”
Abel does not see any factual errors in the article. “It shows that ChatGPT is capable of learning, and I think it will continue to improve. I’m curious about the difference between this version’s result and that of ChatGPT 4.0, since 4.0 has access to more data and has learned more human behaviour.”
From a journalistic perspective, however, there are some issues with the article written by the chatbot. Those points of criticism can be found in this article.
