You can’t escape Artificial Intelligence. Everywhere you turn – the news, business, manufacturing, politics, shopping, entertainment – you’re confronted with mentions of algorithms, Large Language Models, machine learning, Chat GPT, Visio, Gemini, Claude, Canva. It is all a bit mysterious and overwhelming. Education is no different. Ever since Chat GPT made its debut at the end of 2022, the curious and geeky have been experimenting with it. Its potential is huge and so is the potential for cheating.
In May of 2023, we disciplined a student for using AI to write two final papers. It was more than apparent he didn’t write them. Vocabulary and writing style gave it away. I remember feeling conflicted about imposing punishment since, even then, I was certain this young person would be expected to know and use AI throughout his career and here we were reprimanding him for it. What we tried to make clear was that the issue wasn’t about AI, it was about academic honesty and personal integrity. As technology progresses it seems clear that we need to figure out how best to engage with AI, not avoid it.
To help in this endeavor, a team of CRSM teachers began a research task force last year and developed a CRSM Prompt Library to help students and teachers use AI in an appropriate and effective manner for academics and work-study. For instance, rather than having ChatGPT write your term paper, they have developed prompts that make ChatGPT a personal writing coach for students that helps them develop better writing skills without doing the writing for them. Here are a few of the prompt categories for Academics:
Clarifying a concept, Receiving and applying feedback, Demonstrating mastery
Analyzing and strengthening arguments, Researching reliable information, Scheduling and managing your time, Preparing for tests and quizzes, and Evaluating different viewpoints. Similarly, here are a few prompt categories for Work-Study: Fixing common work issues, Communicating an issue with supervisor, Writing concise and relevant emails, Responding to feedback, Scheduling meetings, Phone call practice, and Writing workday reports.
There is also a section on Data Analysis – using AI to help dig into extensive survey information or other data sets. If you have ever tried to analyze themes from open-ended questions, you know how arduous it can be, especially if you have a large sample. Our Principal explained how he recently used AI for Data Analysis and what it produced:
“We recently surveyed our 1300 or so alumni about their high school experience. I am sure there is some bias in that those that may have had negative experiences while in high school did not respond. But all the responses we did receive were overwhelmingly positive. I copied and pasted all the responses in ChatGPT and asked for it to do it what it does best as a large language learning model – look for patterns and themes in the responses. Below is the output. I think a great testimonial of twenty years of collective work on doing our best to make an impact on those we serve.
Key themes from the alumni responses about their experiences at Cristo Rey St. Martin include:
- Transformative Education: Alumni frequently highlight how their time at the school changed their lives in profound ways, particularly in shaping their mindset about their future, personal growth, and academic success. Many emphasized learning that they were not defined by their environment and could control their destiny.
- Supportive Community: The sense of community among classmates, teachers, and staff is a recurring theme. Alumni felt supported not only academically but also emotionally and spiritually. Teachers, counselors, and mentors played crucial roles in fostering personal development, resilience, and success.
- Work-Study Program: The Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP) is repeatedly mentioned as a significant influence. Alumni noted that the work experiences helped them develop professional skills, confidence, and the ability to network and navigate real-world situations, which gave them a competitive edge in college and their careers.
- Faith and Personal Growth: Many alumni spoke about how their faith deepened during their time at Cristo Rey through retreats, theology classes, and campus ministry. Spiritual growth and a strengthened relationship with God were key aspects of their transformation.
- Accountability and Perseverance: A strong emphasis on accountability, grit, and perseverance was noted. Alumni learned to take responsibility for their success, both academically and professionally. Many referred to the importance of hard work, not giving up, and continuing to strive for their goals.
- Value of Education: Education was consistently viewed as the key to changing one’s circumstances and opening doors to greater opportunities. Alumni credited Cristo Rey for instilling the belief in the power of education and helping them pursue higher education and fulfilling careers.
- Being a Person for Others: The value of service to others and the community was a theme that resonated deeply with alumni. Many referenced learning to be a “person for others” and engaging in service as a core principle, which continued to shape their actions beyond high school.
- Career Preparation and Success: Alumni frequently attributed their career success to the skills and opportunities gained at Cristo Rey. Many discussed their current achievements in professional fields like engineering, recruitment, and corporate roles, linking them back to the experiences and internships provided by the school.
- Resilience and Overcoming Challenges: Many alumni came from challenging environments, and Cristo Rey helped them overcome obstacles. They expressed gratitude for the school’s support in helping them navigate hardships, grow as individuals, and succeed academically and professionally.
Overall, these themes highlight Cristo Rey St. Martin as a place that empowers students to overcome adversity, achieve academic and personal growth, and become compassionate, service-oriented individuals prepared for successful futures.”
This is a great example of the power of AI to save time and energy so we can focus more on what the data is telling us rather than the time-consuming practice of prepping the data to become information.
Ginni Rometty former CEO of IBM said she much preferred the term “Augmented Intelligence” rather than “Artificial Intelligence.” It can really enhance our lives when used with integrity. ¡Viva Cristo Rey!