4 days ago
University of Calgary professor, students say AI models not meeting expectations
Kris Hans is teaching his students how to use AI in the classroom, but he says that the tools they use, while handy, aren't working as well as they used to.
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'I see it every week in the classroom: students wrestle with so‑called upgraded assistants that demand more hand‑holding than their simpler predecessors,' he told Postmedia in an interview.
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Hans' classes use generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT that use machine learning to create text, photo and video content with little input from a human.
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In the spring 2023 semester at Mount Royal University, Hans decided to make AI use a requirement for his class MGMT 3210 — Business Communication Theory & Practice.
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Hans previously said the project looked to explore effective and accountable ways of utilizing ChatGPT and similar applications instead of banning them or pretending they didn't exist.
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Students in Hans' class are required to use AI for tasks such as brainstorming, outlining, drafting and revision, while stressing transparency and accountability.
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Throughout the past two years, however, Hans has seen his students struggle with AI models that don't live up to their promises, or even their predecessors, and he cites a number of forces at work here.
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He said that investors are rewarding companies for integrating AI as fast as possible, leaving little room for user experience testing and turning customers into beta testers.
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'Even if a new assistant stumbles, it sits inside ecosystems — think Android, iOS, or Microsoft 365 — that consumers are already locked into,' Hans said.
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'Switching is painful, so users stick around.'
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Braintoy AI CEO, Kwame Asiedu, said that Canadians are particularly skeptical about AI implementation when compared to citizens of other countries, which remains the primary roadblock in AI development. But, he said, Braintoy AI is working on educating the public on the advantages of AI integration.
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The company developed a machine learning platform that allows users with limited coding and technical skills to create AI tools that fit their specific needs. The companies stated goal is to make AI accessible to everyone.
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'We've seen the benefits of adapting AI in various industries in various organizations outside and inside of Canada,' said Asiedu.
