Many children and teenagers are already using ChatGPT. It currently has 13 million daily users. So the chances are your child could be one of the early adopters.
As a parent or teacher, it’s natural to want to protect your child from the potential risks and dangers of technology, particularly because of the rapid rate these new technologies are being introduced to children – frequently and without safeguards in place.
So the aim of Part 1 is to cover the basics ie helping your child use it safely. We’re going to delve deeper into Chat GPT3 and 4 in Part 2 and 3.
Soo, Chat GPT, a ‘large language’ model trained by OpenAI, is a new and powerful tool that has the potential to revolutionise the way we communicate online.
However, as with any new technology, there are risks and dangers associated with its use, particularly for teenagers and pre-teens who may not fully understand the potential consequences of behaviour online or when using new technologies like Chatbots.
In Part 1 we’ll explore what parents and teachers need to know about Chat GPT, including the risks and dangers associated with its use, and provide basic tips on how teenagers and pre-teens can use it safely.
WHAT IS CHAT GPT?
Chat GPT is a machine learning model that uses natural language processing to generate human-like responses to text input. Yes, we’re here now. It’s based on the GPT-3 architecture and has been trained on an unbelievably vast amount of data, including books, websites, and other online content.
Chat GPT can be used for a variety of purposes, including answering questions, generating text, and even holding conversations. It has been hailed as a breakthrough in natural language processing and is moving at a never-seen- before pace.
However, like any tool, Chat GPT can be misused, and it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and dangers associated with its use.
THE RISKS
While Chat GPT can be used for plagiarising in assignments and homeworks – which is one of the major concerns of the schools and colleges, there are other concerns outside of education.
One of the main risks associated with Chat GPT is the potential for it to be used to spread misinformation or disinformation. Because Chat GPT can generate human-like responses, it can be difficult to distinguish between real and fake information.
This is particularly concerning for teenagers who may be more susceptible to believing false information and may not have the critical thinking skills needed to evaluate the accuracy of the information they receive.
Chat GPT has no adequate age verification measures in place and does not have the ability to remove young users.
Another potential risk of Chat GPT is that it could be used for cyberbullying. Because Chat GPT can generate text in response to input, it can be used to harass or intimidate others online.
This is a concern for parents, as cyberbullying can have serious consequences for the mental health and well being of teenagers. It’s important for parents to monitor their child’s use of Chat GPT (and other Chatbots) and to have open and honest conversations with them regularly.
TIPS FOR USING CHAT GPT SAFELY
Despite the potential risks and dangers associated with Chat GPT, there are steps that parents and teenagers can take to use it safely.
#1 Use Chat GPT in a safe and controlled environment
One of the best ways to use Chat GPT safely is to use it in a safe and controlled environment. This could be through a school or educational program that provides access to Chat GPT or through a private chat room or forum where access is restricted to trusted users.
#2 Monitor your child’s use of Chat GPT
It’s essential for parents to monitor their child’s use of Chat GPT and to have open and honest conversations with them about the potential risks and dangers associated with its use. Parents should also be aware of the potential signs of cyberbullying, such as changes in behaviour or mood, and take action if necessary.
#3 Educate your child about the risks and dangers of Chat GPT
It’s important for parents to educate their child about the potential risks and dangers associated with Chat GPT, including the potential for misinformation and cyberbullying. Parents should also encourage their child to think critically about the information they receive and to question its accuracy and validity.
#4 Set clear boundaries and expectations
Parents should set clear boundaries and expectations for their child’s use of Chat GPT, including when and where it can be used and what types of conversations are appropriate. This can help to ensure that Chat GPT is used safely and responsibly.
CONCLUSION
Again, Chat GPT is a powerful tool that has the potential to revolutionise the way we communicate online.
However, like any technology, we need to help our children and young people manage the risks associated with its use, particularly teenagers who may not fully understand the potential consequences of mis-use of these technologies.
In Part 2 we’re going to delve deeper into Chat GPT(3), released November 2022 free and now available for everyone and Chat GPT4 which was just released in March 2023 for paid subscribers.
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