AI, the most condemned tool in today’s schools. Students earn fewer points if a teacher even has one slight suspicion about the use of AI in their assignments. A well-known example of this is ChatGPT, an infamous AI tool that one in five U.S. teens who’ve heard of it use to cheat on their assignments (Pew Research Center). Teachers constantly stress the importance of academic integrity and students doing their work on their own, even if they will earn a lower grade. This is why it was such a shock when Khanmigo- a new AI assistant that is used to guide students through their assignments- was introduced to schools.
Khanmigo was introduced on March 14th, 2023. However, it was only this school year that Khanmigo was implemented in schools throughout Palm Beach County. Teachers are mandated per the school district to use Khanmigo in all of their classes, regardless of what subject they teach. It has had a positive impact on some students who believe that it is a useful addition to their education.
“I think Khanmigo is a really helpful tool that can help with students’ schoolwork. I use it when I get really stuck on Geometry,” Thomas Amenita, eighth-grade vocal major, said.
Khanmigo can help with just about anything, whether it is for spelling, math, or science. Aside from that, students can also chat with bots posing as historical figures and have mock debates with the AI. Moreover, students can use Khanmigo for planning their essays and even with coaching for academic and career growth.
Students have mixed opinions on this new technology. Some believe that Khanmigo is an effective tool, but others believe it isn’t beneficial.
“It’s alright for learning in class, but for me, it is not very helpful with some subjects. I haven’t really noticed any changes in my grades because of it,” Kalena Skolnick, sixth-grade vocal major, said.
The majority of students have the same opinion on how it could be made better- make the platform more interactive.
“If I could make an improvement to Khanmigo, I would make it more engaging, maybe add some games,” Scarlet Haffey, seventh-grade dance major said.
In the past, teachers were apprehensive about AI in general. Yet, teachers are slowly coming to terms that AI does have benefits being implemented in their classes after Khamigo was introduced.
“Khanmigo helps students with their ability to answer questions and ask for help without needing a teacher around. I also do really love that Khanmigo doesn’t just hand the answer out to students.” Melanie DeAngelis, Geometry Honors teacher, said.
Technology is becoming more and more prominent. It was only a matter of time before students and teachers alike saw the rise of AI too, especially in schools. AI is ever-changing, constantly evolving, growing, and becoming more sophisticated as time goes on.
“I believe as students asks Khamigo more questions to the AI, the more the AI will get smarter and smarter will get with answering questions in the future.” DeAngelis said.
