Responsible Use of AI Chatbots in Education: German Experts’ Insights

A recent study involving prominent education experts in Germany has revealed that the use of AI-based chatbots, such as Microsoft’s “CoPilot” chat program and Google’s “Bert” application, holds significant potential when deployed in schools. However, their usage is subject to numerous conditions, as reported by the German news agency.

According to a research paper released by Germany’s Permanent Scientific Committee on Educational Policy, there are several prerequisites and regulations for the responsible use of AI tools to enhance education.

The committee recommended a swift transition phase involving experimental trials of such tools “within a culture of error recognition.” It also highlighted the risks and obstacles associated with their adoption.

“It is conceivable and necessary for artificial intelligence to support educational processes, but the final decision or assessment and responsibility for the end product should remain in human hands,” the committee stated. It emphasized the need to train teachers accordingly and advocated for the rapid expansion of training programs.

Researchers believe that AI tools that generate text, such as “GPT Chat,” should not be used in elementary schools and should be largely avoided in the early years of secondary school. Instead, the focus should be on developing reading and writing skills. From the eighth grade onwards or mid-secondary school, AI programs could be periodically employed to reinforce writing skills, while text production should continue without the aid of such tools. Close monitoring of AI usage is deemed essential.

Experts suggest that AI programs are particularly suited for providing support “when learners possess high levels of technical and digital skills, as well as reading and writing proficiency.”

Therefore, their usage is recommended with older students, including university-level learners. The goal is the “constructive use” of this technology. The development of reading and writing skills in the early school years should occur without relying on what are known as large language models, which make tools like GPT Chat and Bert possible.