2018 Tutu Fellow Edzai Zvobwo has been interviewed by the SABC about ChatGPT and education. GPT, which stands for Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer, is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) chat program created by an AI research company Open AI. This AI is based on software technology called Natural Language Processing. The interview took place in January 2023.
Edzai mentions that the new version is impressive because it sounds like a human being.
In the interview, the question came up about ChatGPT and other technology possibly resulting in cheating in classrooms. Students have used this technology to get help during exams. In the interview, Edzai responded that perhaps students shouldn't be taking online exams that are hackable. If the system can be manipulated, then that system is needs to be corrected.
He suggests that schools should focus on oral exams and practical application of subjects. When asked about the loss of jobs through technology, Edzai stated that any technology impacts jobs and while some functions will become automated, humans will adapt, and new jobs will be created.
Edzai works as Chief Genius at MathsGenius Leadership Institute. He uses his honors degree in mathematics to educate and empower others. Also the founder of MathsGee, an online supplementary learning platform that provides support for remote learners.
Edzai's accomplishments include being named the SABC Ambassador for STEM; the Agenda 2063 Champion for Skills Development; and a Bill & Melinda Gates Goalkeeper. He has also received several accolades for his work, including the 2014 SADC Protocol on Gender and Development award for his contribution to women's empowerment in education, and being named a Top 40 African EdTech Innovations, mLab GAP ICT Innovations finalist, and SAIS-Finland Innovation Award recipient.
You can watch the full interview here:
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