The Mycenaean

ChatGPT was introduced on November 30, 2022. Many students see this as an easier alternative to doing schoolwork. They can ask a question and get an answer in seconds. This shortcut, while it has some benefits, also has some major setbacks.

With just a few typed words, students can generate entire essays, solve math problems, or summarize books. This shortcut, while helpful in some ways, also brings us concerns. AI affects academic integrity, critical thinking, and genuine learning. How students use ChatGPT is quickly becoming a major topic in education.

Students say ChatGPT helps when they’re stressed or short on time. Between school, sports, jobs, and family, time is limited. For some, it’s not about cheating; it’s about efficiency. ChatGPT offers a fast way to keep up with heavy workloads.

Grady Rodgers, sophomore, said, “It’s not that I don’t want to do my work, but when I’m overwhelmed with homework and only have a few hours, ChatGPT helps me get through it faster.”

Students also use ChatGPT to better understand topics. They say it helps with brainstorming and makes writing less stressful. For many, it’s a starting point, not the final product.

Still, some students copy and paste answers without reading them. This can lead to plagiarism and a loss of personal voice in writing. Teachers can see that the work clearly isn’t original. It’s a growing problem in classrooms. 

Tyler McInnis, sophomore, said, “I’ve seen students submit entire essays that clearly weren’t their work. They ended up getting a zero.”

Some schools now use AI detectors to catch copied work. Others can view document history. But students are finding ways around the systems. Technology is evolving fast, and it’s hard to keep up.

Besides cheating concerns, there’s also the issue of long-term learning. If students rely on AI too much, they may not develop key skills. Writing, thinking, and problem solving can suffer. These skills are important beyond school.

Some teachers are adapting by using AI in their lessons. They teach students how to use ChatGPT to brainstorm or study. Used this way, AI becomes a tool, not a crutch. It’s all about teaching balance and responsibility.

To make this work, schools need clear rules on how and when to use this technology. Students should know how and when to use AI tools wisely. At LRHS, if a student is caught cheating or using AI in a negative way, they get a zero on the assignment. With guidance, they can benefit from the technology without losing important skills.

As AI becomes more common, it will likely remain part of the classroom. The real question is how to use it in a way that helps, not hurts. The goal is to help students think, create, and grow.

One of the deeper fears is that AI could eventually replace teachers. If students turn to ChatGPT for lessons, writing help, and test preparation, some wonder what role teachers will play. AI can already explain math problems, offer feedback on essays, and create study guides.

Some students would rather ask ChatGPT than raise a hand. It’s always available, never judges, and gives fast answers with less work. But that’s not the same as real teaching, which involves emotions, growth, and understanding.

While AI can provide information, it cannot replace the connection and care that real teachers give. A chatbot can answer questions, but it can inspire students, adjust to their feelings, or encourage them when they’re struggling. Teachers do more than teach. They guide, support, and shape lives.

Still, the fear of replacement is real. Some school districts are already experimenting with AI tutors or automated grading systems. This might be a good thing because students would get concise, straightforward information, but they lack the human connection that a teacher can give. As technology advances, it’s possible that parts of the teaching job will change or even disappear.

This makes it even more important to define the role of teachers in the age of AI. Rather than being replaced, teachers can shift into roles where they coach students on how to use AI wisely. They can focus more on discussion, critical thinking, and creativity, which are things AI cannot truly do.

No matter how smart AI becomes, it can’t replace the learning process. Teachers and students must work together to find the right balance.