AI isn't Cheating

I think, as teachers, there’s a stigma that using ChatGPT is "cheating." But instead of seeing AI as an easy way out, think of it as a helping hand. Can you ask ChatGPT to create a lesson for you? Sure. But will it be great without your expertise, input, and tweaks? No. AI is a tool, not a replacement—so just start playing with it!

Getting Started with AI Chatbots

Alright, here’s my first piece of advice: just start experimenting with AI chatbots! Don’t overthink it, don’t wait for the “perfect” moment—just dive in and see what they can do.

There are plenty of options to explore, like Google’s Gemini or ChatGPT. Each has its strengths, and the best way to understand how they work is to try them out yourself. Whether you're using AI for brainstorming, lesson planning, or just answering random questions, getting hands-on experience is the best way to learn.

Which AI Do I Use?

I use ChatGPT, the Teacher Bot, and GPT Teacher, all available on the ChatGPT platform. When brainstorming anything educational, I’ve found ChatGPT’s responses more useful than Gemini’s. Since I rely on it frequently, I also subscribe to the paid version for $20/month.

Should you upgrade? If you’re new to ChatGPT, you likely don’t need the paid version yet. The free version does have limits—you might get logged out after extended use (usually 30-60 minutes of continuous chatting). However, this resets after a few hours, and you can jump back in. Additionally, free users have a data cap, meaning once you reach the limit, ChatGPT will stop responding until your usage resets.