Some call it cheating, others say it’s a helpful tool for students.
But new data suggest more students are turning to the artificial intelligence software known as ChatGPT when it comes to fast and easy information retrieval.
Essay writing company EssayShark analyzed Google search volume over the last year for terms related to using artificial intelligence tools to write essays. The team looked at 30 search terms, including “AI essay writer” and “how to use AI for essays,” to find out which states have students who want a quick and easy way to get essays finished. They then ranked them from highest to lowest in terms of the number of searches each month per 100,000 residents.
Florida ranks sixth with an average of 18.79 months per 100,000 students using the AI service for schoolwork. EssayShark says that with Florida’s 40 public universities and colleges, students in the state generally study business, psychology, engineering, and healthcare-related programs, which can be enhanced by the use of generative AI but need to be carefully reviewed for accuracy.
Frederick Poche, CMO at EssayShark has commented, “Students are bombarded with information and homework every day, making time one of the most precious commodities in college life. As busy as they are, turning to artificial intelligence to help them efficiently complete work seems like a no-brainer.
“ChatGPT and models like it can be used as an assistant, but should never be used to write a full essay or piece of work. For structural assistance or support with vocabulary to provide a better reading experience, AI models excel and enhance the hard work a student puts into their essays. It can even help with generating ideas and putting thoughts into a coherent sentence.”
Poche also said that the overuse of AI can cause students to lose essential skills, such as critical thinking and research skills. Generative AI models draw from existing material, opening the door for plagiarism concerns. It also has a limited knowledge base and can fabricate information from scratch with no basis in reality.
