Wizard Chess, Robot Bikes and More: Six Students Creating Cool Stuff with AI

by Greg Toppo

The 74

Illustration by M. Keany/AI

In the article "Wizard Chess, Robot Bikes and More: Six Students Creating Cool Stuff with AI" by Greg Toppo, published on February 25, 2024, the narrative shifts focus from the common educator concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and potential academic dishonesty to the innovative and constructive engagement with AI by students. The introduction of ChatGPT by OpenAI has led to widespread discussions on the implications of AI in educational settings, with a considerable portion of educators fearing its misuse for cheating purposes. However, Toppo highlights a different perspective, showcasing students who are harnessing AI to forge their future careers and solve complex problems.

The article presents findings from a December survey by ACT, revealing that nearly half of the high school students preparing for the June 2023 college entrance exam had utilized AI tools like ChatGPT for school assignments. This insight underpins the narrative that, contrary to widespread apprehensions, a segment of students is actively exploring the potential of AI beyond academic dishonesty. Toppo introduces six students, some as young as 15, engaged in advanced AI projects that range from autonomous bicycles and mental health apps to AI-driven educational tools and innovative games. These students, many of whom are immigrants or children of immigrants, embody a deep engagement with AI that transcends generational and cultural boundaries, illustrating a global collaboration in the field of AI innovation.

The students' projects, which include an AI-powered chatbot for 911 calls, a robotic chess game inspired by Harry Potter, and an autonomous bicycle, among others, serve as examples of how young people are not only envisioning AI's potential to address real-world issues but are also actively participating in its development. These initiatives reflect a broader understanding and application of AI technologies, challenging the narrative that AI's primary impact on education is related to cheating.

Toppo's article encourages a reevaluation of the discourse surrounding AI in education, suggesting that the focus should not solely be on the technology's potential for misuse. Instead, it highlights the importance of embracing AI as a tool for innovation and learning. By showcasing the work of young AI enthusiasts, the piece argues for a more nuanced understanding of AI's role in shaping future professionals and problem-solvers. This perspective is crucial for educators and policymakers as they navigate the integration of AI into educational curricula and consider its implications for teaching and learning in the digital age.

The article ultimately serves as a call to action for educators to recognize and nurture the potential of AI as a transformative force in education, encouraging a balanced approach that fosters responsible use and innovation.

Read more...

------------------------------

Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com