AI ‘infantilizes younger generation’
In response to “Human intelligence must rule: AI needs limits imposed by people” (Tribune-Herald, Dec. 8), there are many ways to respond. I would like to offer my own preliminary experiences with it.
Undoubtedly, we must accept the technology as it exists and evolves, evaluating its advantages and disadvantages critically. Indeed, there are many areas where AI can be a great service by facilitating numerous tasks we cannot do well or easily.
But for students, there are major risks involved. Allowing a computer to write an assignment represents, well, plagiarism to the extreme.
It hurts the students not only because they will probably be caught and penalized, but they did not do their own task, did not accept the challenge of writing a critical piece, and hence did not learn the basics of how to formulate their own thoughts and to express them in a logical and convincing fashion.
AI cannot develop an innovative thesis, cannot come up with new ideas. AI is super good at summarizing various ideas or texts, comparing and contrasting them.
However, our students must learn how to find their own voice, develop their own ideas, and hence learn how to grow into independent adults. AI takes all that away and infantilizes the young generation.
As a teacher, I was able to detect the use of AI immediately without any external help (i.e., Turnitin) because the narrative was basically irrelevant, removed from the topic, and did not say anything meaningful.
The danger with AI can only increase in the near future, but the European Union at least has already formulated strict rules and regulations. The U.S. is, once again, lagging behind for miles and accepts everything in a laissez-faire manner.
But we the teachers are responsible for the intellectual growth of our students, and AI is at this point a toxic vehicle.
Albrecht Classen
Hilo
Kudos for a great family event in Hilo
We want to acknowledge the hard work and incredible organization that went into (the Dec. 9) Keiki Fun Run at Waiakea High.
Our three oldest grandkids participated, as well as about 800 kids from 20-plus elementary schools on this island.
We saw lots of Waiakea High students teaching, coaching and helping out with keiki games. The cross country and track students who ended up running several times around the track during the six fun runs in the very hot sun were an inspiration.
This was a real family event. Hats off to faculty and staff at Waiakea High and most importantly to the many high school students who made this day a huge success. It’s important to let the Hilo community know that these high school students are appreciated.
Mary and Richard Hudak
Hilo