Integrating ChatGPT into Tutorial Sessions to Enhance Critical Thinking in University Students

Introduction

Presenters:
- Sandra Morales: Digital Education Advisor at the Center for Teaching and Learning, Oxford University.
- Co-Presenter: A colleague also working at Oxford University.
Session Overview:
- Context of tutorials at Oxford University.
- Experience using AI in psychology tutorials.
- Recommendations for integrating AI.
- Time for questions if available.

Context of Tutorials at Oxford University

Tutorial Structure:
- Small group teaching sessions with one tutor and 1-3 students.
- Tutors encourage analytical and critical thinking to deepen subject knowledge.
- Different types of tutorial sessions based on student needs:
  - Feedback sessions.
  - Problem-solving activities.
  - Questioning techniques.
  - Collaborative discussions.
  - Content knowledge exploration.
Organizational Diversity:
- Tutorials are organized independently by different programs and divisions.
- Tutors tailor sessions according to their students' specific needs.

Authority and Knowledge in AI

Key Discussion Points:
- Questioned who holds authority and expertise in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
- Considered the challenges of making recommendations in a new and developing area.
- Noted that AI's disruptive impact is comparable to significant events like Brexit and COVID-19.
- Highlighted the difficulty in identifying reliable authorities on AI.

Experience Using AI in Tutorials

Learning Pathways Development:
- Developed during the pandemic to integrate AI tools into teaching.
- Utilized platforms like Canvas and Microsoft Teams.
- Integrated ChatGPT at different stages:
  - Knowledge application.
  - Online and in-class collaboration.
  - Personalized learning experiences.
Example from Language Center Tutor:
- Applied the learning pathway structure in tutorials.
- Included ChatGPT in various learning stages for enhanced interaction.
- Both tutor and student engaged with ChatGPT during sessions.
Student Feedback:
- Students appreciated tutor support while working with ChatGPT.
- Valued the collaborative process involving AI tools.

Enhancing Critical Thinking with AI

Central Question: Is critical thinking the answer to effectively utilizing generative AI?
Approach:
- Aimed to use AI tools to support analysis, evaluation, decision-making, and reflection.
- Sought to familiarize students with AI to enhance critical engagement.

Implementing ChatGPT in Psychology Tutorials

Methods:
- Introduced ChatGPT to students unfamiliar with the tool.
- Used ChatGPT during one-on-one tutorial sessions.
- Observed students' interactions, focusing on prompt engineering.
- Assigned tasks such as designing a curriculum or preparing a lecture.
Observations:
- Students' prompting styles varied based on personality.
- Language used in prompts included:
  - Imperative commands (e.g., "Write me a university-level...").
  - Polite requests (e.g., "Hello, can you please...").
  - Directives specifying roles (e.g., "I want you to be an expert...").
- Noted that prompting language mirrored students' personalities.

Developing an AI Competency Framework

Inspiration: Based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Competency Levels: Ranged from novice to expert users.
Five Modes of Engagement:
- Tool Selection: Choosing appropriate AI tools.
- Prompting Techniques: Crafting effective prompts.
- Interpreting Outcomes: Understanding AI-generated responses.
- Integrating AI: Applying AI in professional practice.
- Tool Development: Making decisions about AI tool development.
Self-Evaluation Tool:
- Created for students and staff to assess their AI proficiency.
- Helps identify current competency level before engaging with AI tools.

Proposed Framework for Tutorials

Integration of ChatGPT:
- Recommended using ChatGPT as a companion in tutorial sessions.
- Applicable across various session types (feedback, problem-solving, etc.).
Implementation Process:
- Self-Evaluation:
  - Students assess their initial proficiency with AI.
  - Facilitates personalized support from the tutor.
- Prompting Practice:
  - Focus on developing effective communication with AI.
  - Emphasizes the importance of prompt language and structure.
- Reflection and Awareness:
  - Encourage students to document their AI interaction process.
  - Discuss successes and areas for improvement.
- Self-Monitoring:
  - Promote autonomy in controlling AI usage.
  - Foster critical thinking about AI's role in learning.
Objective:
- Enhance critical thinking skills.
- Empower students to use AI tools effectively and responsibly.

Student Perspective

Quote: Emphasized taking control over AI tools rather than allowing AI to dictate the learning process.

Insight: Highlights the importance of maintaining critical oversight when using AI.

Ongoing Work

Canvas Course Development:
- Creating online resources for academics and students.
- Aimed at educating users about AI integration in learning.
- Courses are currently under development and not yet widely available.

Conclusion

Acknowledgments:
- Thanked the audience for their attention.
- Noted that the proposed framework is a starting point for discussion.
Future Considerations:
- Recognized the need for ongoing dialogue about AI's role in education.
- Invited feedback and collaboration to refine approaches.

Note: The presenters emphasized that the framework and recommendations are preliminary and subject to further refinement based on collective input and evolving understanding of AI in educational contexts.