Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing how students learn, and many undergraduates at the Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ) are no exception.
AI, particularly generative AI like ChatGPT, makes studying easier by helping with research, writing, and explaining difficult topics in seconds. Instead of spending hours searching through textbooks or struggling with assignments, students can quickly get answers, summaries, and suggestions using AI-powered tools.
Many students believe that AI is making education more accessible and reducing stress, especially when deadlines are tight. With AI, they can generate ideas faster, improve their writing, and even get step-by-step explanations for complex subjects. In a world where time is valuable, AI is seen as a great companion for students who want to study smarter, not harder.
However, while AI offers many advantages, it also comes with serious downsides. Many students have become too dependent on AI, leading to a decline in manual productivity and creativity. Instead of researching and writing assignments on their own, some students simply copy AI-generated content without fully understanding it. This not only affects their learning but also reduces the originality and quality of their work.
Lecturers at NIJ have noticed that some students submit assignments that lack depth and personal insight because they rely too much on AI. Furthermore, as AI takes over simple tasks, students are doing less critical thinking, which is a key skill for success in both academics and the real world. If this trend continues, there is a risk that students will graduate with degrees but without the ability to analyze and solve problems independently.
Despite these concerns, AI can be a powerful tool for students who use it wisely. Some students treat AI as a tutor, using it to ask questions, get explanations, and clarify difficult topics. AI-powered proofreading tools help students refine their essays and reports, improving grammar and structure.
On the other hand, AI can also become a serious distraction. Many students admit that instead of using AI for studying, they spend hours exploring AI-generated jokes, stories, and social media content, leading to procrastination. Others find AI so convenient that they no longer put in the effort to complete assignments themselves, leading to shallow learning. Some students that we interviewed have shared their opinions on the topic:
However, the key to solving this problem is balance. AI, or chatbots as the case may be, is not the enemy; it is a tool that should be used responsibly. Instead of completely avoiding AI, students should learn to use it in ways that complement their education rather than replace their efforts.
Higher institutions like NIJ must also play a role in guiding students on ethical AI use, ensuring that it is used for learning and skill development rather than for shortcuts. This is because, if students continue to rely on AI to do their work, they risk graduating without truly understanding their field of study. Employers might soon begin questioning whether graduates can actually perform tasks on their own or if they have just been relying on AI throughout their academic journey.
MERITS OF AI AND CHATBOTS TO STUDENTS:
With the responsible use of Ai powered tools, students can look forward to:
- Faster Research and Information Access.
- Improved Writing and Proofreading.
- Personalized Learning.
- Task Automation.
- Better Understanding of Difficult Subjects.
DEMERITS OF AI AND CHATBOTS TO STUDENTS:
If the use of Ai is not properly guided, students and institutions will end up experiencing:
- Overdependence on AI.
- Lack of Originality.
- Distraction and Procrastination.
- Reduced Manual Productivity.
- Risk of Misinformation.
Will AI be a friend that helps them learn better and improve their skills, or will it be a foe that makes them lazy and dependent? The answer depends on how students use AI in their daily academic lives. If they strike the right balance, AI can be a game-changer that enhances their education rather than weakens it. However, if they misuse it, they may face serious consequences in their academic and professional future. The responsibility is in their hands, and the way they choose to engage with AI will shape their success in the long run.
Arinze Nwokedi
