Hello everyone, tech-savvy parents and budding coders!

At TechSpark, we thought we would explore the world of AI and coding in education. Buckle up, we’re about to explore how AI is changing the game, and why it’s cooler than ever for students to learn to code.

AI: The Classroom’s New Best Friend (BFF)?

For Teachers:

As a teacher or parent, you might be thinking, “What does the future hold for AI in education, and will it change everything?” Imagine having a super-smart buddy who helps you tailor your lessons, 24/7. What about that dreaded pile of homework? AI can help you with grading, which meaning you might have more time to become your student’s mentor instead of a permanent paper-checker. AI can do that!

For Students:

Large language models (LLM) such as ChatGPT can serve as a valuable resource for students across a range of academic situations. Students quickly learn how to leverage “prompt engineering”, that is the art of asking AI questions in a way which is most likely to yield a useful answer. AI can also adapt to students’ learning style, track their progress, and dish out custom-tailored exercises to boost their brainpower.

It is imperative however that students learn to employ ChatGPT in an ethical and responsible manner to prevent academic misconduct.” To do so, students can use ChatGPT as a research tool, for example, to gain a better understanding of a particular topic or question. However, “students need to continue to they cite the sources properly and use the information provided by ChatGPT as a reference only.” Linkedin recommends 

AI: Limitations of Large Language Models in education

As a recent academic paper points out, use of AI in education also raises various concerns, such as its generation of incorrect or fake information and the threat it poses to academic integrity.

Many schools are now working on updating their guidelines and policies for academic integrity and plagiarism prevention. Additionally, teachers are slowly being trained on how to use ChatGPT effectively and detect student plagiarism.

Equally, students and teachers need to be educated and trained on the limitations of ChatGPT and how to use the powerful AI tool ethically and with integrity.

Coding: The Superpower of the Future

Now, let’s talk about coding. It is only by learning to code that students can really understand how AI tools such as ChaGPT work. Working with computer code enhances students’ understanding of LLMs by providing hands-on experience and enabling transparency and control over the models:

Hands-On Experience

Coding involves the creation of algorithms, scripts, or applications using programming languages. When students code, they engage with the fundamental principles of logic, data manipulation, and problem-solving that underpin LLMs.

Transparency and Control

By learning to code, students gain insights into the mechanics of programming languages and the development of software applications. This knowledge allows them to explore and experiment with LLMs more effectively.

Creative Wizardry

Coding lets students transform their wildest ideas into reality. Whether it’s designing a dream game, building a website, or crafting an app, coding empowers students to unleash their inner creative genius.

So where do we go from here?

AI is revolutionising education, making it more tailored, accessible, and fun. At the same time, students need to learn to use it ethically, as a research tool rather than a plagiarism machine. And coding? Well, it’s the ultimate superpower of the future, helping to turn student’s into creative geniuses, problem-solving ninjas, and world-changers.

So, students, grab your laptops and join us online or in person, making your way into a bright, AI-powered future. It’s not just about learning—it’s about unleashing your potential and having a ton of fun along the way. 

Whether you are a budding coder or just looking to design your own superheroes – at TechSpark Academy we have something for everyone! Check out our upcoming camps and courses.

Happy coding! 🚀