ChatGPT's "study mode" will also allow people to learn

OpenAI has introduced "Study Mode," a feature that breathes new life into its AI- powered educational tools. Developed amidst the debate over whether, as New York Magazine put it, "everyone cheats their way through college," this mode is designed to help students deeply understand topics, rather than simply providing the correct answer.

FROM SHORT ANSWERS TO DEEP LEARNING

"Study Mode" isn't a new version of ChatGPT; it's a set of custom system instructions developed in collaboration with teachers, scientists, and education experts. The goal is to transform ChatGPT from a summary encyclopedia into a Socratic tutorial. This mode presents new information piecemeal, asking students leading questions, interspersing knowledge checks, and testing student understanding. For example, in response to a request to "Teach game theory," ChatGPT first asks the student about their prior knowledge and how they intend to use it. It then introduces the topic with a brief explanation, pausing for a question to continue the learning process.

GUIDANCE INSTEAD OF ANSWER

For example, if a frustrated user tries to ask for a direct answer to a math problem like the classic "train problem," Study Mode politely rejects the request and guides them to solve the problem together. However, OpenAI states that direct answers will also be provided for very persistent requests. OpenAI says that in developing this mode, they were inspired by "power users" who already use ChatGPT as a personal tutor or exam preparation tool. With "Study Mode," students without technical knowledge will now have access to a personal digital tutor. During the mode's development process, teaching experts guided ChatGPT by creating examples of ideal tutor responses. Some university students were given access beforehand, and these students reported that the mode was very effective in both gaining knowledge and boosting their confidence.

IS IT RELIABLE?

Given the tendency of AI models to occasionally fabricate information, some users may be wary of this type of training aid. OpenAI argues that Study Mode mitigates this risk because information is delivered in small chunks, and the model calibrates itself at each step.

WHEN WILL IT BE AVAILABLE?

“Study Mode” will be available in subscription schools in the coming weeks as part of OpenAI’s special product for educational institutions, ChatGPT Edu.

OpenAI also explained that this feature is just the beginning and that similar behaviors are planned to be integrated directly into mainstream models in the future.