Jonathan Grant High students urged to use AI responsibly

Students at Jonathan Grant High School in Spanish Town, St Catherine, have been cautioned against misusing artificial intelligence (AI), with pupils being urged to take their education seriously and put in the necessary work.

Chief AI consultant at Transcent AI Consulting, Marc Frankson, delivered the charge to students at the school's annual Career Expo, which was held today.

The guest speaker said that generative AI could negatively impact students' critical thinking skills.

However, he noted that it is up to educators to find creative ways to use the technology to counter that effect.

"I do believe it is possible, especially where there is an overreliance on AI, but that doesn't mean that AI is negative. It is up to us to get children to think of it not only as a shortcut, but also as a tool to bring out those critical thinking skills," he said, citing examples in which teachers could create AI-generated problems that force students to think critically about solutions.

Frankson also used his presentation to encourage students to find their passion and pursue it strategically.

"Take a moment, self-reflect, and plan. Just going through the motions in school is not enough. You have to decide who you are and what you want," he said.

His sentiments were echoed by guidance counsellor Alicia Harris.

"Most of the students like AI and the technological aspects of things, but we still have students interested in skill areas and careers such as law and the culinary arts," she said.

"At the same time, the interest in AI may be coming from the fact that they find it easier and don't have to think, which I fear may affect their critical thinking skills," Harris added, while noting the benefits of AI in assisting with certain projects and homework.

"But some of them are so dependent on it that if you ask a question, they are unable to give an answer, which gives the impression that the child is not reasoning," she said, adding that AI influence is often reflected in students' tone and jargon.

"And so it doesn't sound like them, because you know your students and where they are in terms of their development," she added.

The expo, held under the theme "Discover Your Passion, Pursue Your Dream," featured several institutions showcasing various career paths.

Grade 11 student Shameka Blake, 16, said she was inspired by the displays.

"I want to become a veterinarian or a paediatrician. Career Day has exposed me to the many colleges, programmes, and scholarships that will help me achieve my career goals," she said.

Another Grade 11 student, Saleem Ballingsingh, 17, shared similar sentiments.

"I would like to become an engineer or an athlete in football or track. This has exposed me to new things--things I've never seen before," he said.

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar, or on Whatsapp @ 876-550-250