The widely used homework-drafting chatbot, ChatGPT, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), is now being integrated into Chegg’s educational software, creating CheggMate, a personalized study aide for students, according to CEO Dan Rosensweig. This move comes at a time when educators are grappling with the consequences of AI in education, with concerns about academic integrity and plagiarism. CheggMate, focused on math and sciences, will adapt to students’ needs by analyzing their classes and missed exam questions, and providing personalized practice tests. Initially available for free next month, CheggMate aims to provide a “tutor in your pocket” experience.
The release of CheggMate has raised concerns amongst educators, as the use of ChatGPT in the past has led to some students submitting assignments that were coherently written by the chatbot, bypassing coursework and raising questions about academic integrity. Some schools, like the Los Angeles Unified School District, have blocked access to ChatGPT due to these concerns, while others have banned it for potential plagiarism issues. However, Rosensweig assured that Chegg has taken measures to ensure accuracy in the answers provided by CheggMate, and it focuses on math and sciences, which are less prone to essay drafting challenges.
There are also questions about the impact of AI on content creation and profitability. Chegg currently has a pool of 150,000 human experts contributing to its content, and some analysts have raised concerns about the potential decrease in demand for human expertise with the integration of AI. However, Rosensweig stated that Chegg already balances humans with technology, and CheggMate is expected to lower the cost of content creation and improve profitability over time.
Amidst these concerns, OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman expressed excitement about the partnership with Chegg and the potential to improve global learning. Chegg’s proprietary data and relevance in the education industry were cited as reasons for the partnership by Rosensweig.
As the integration of AI in education continues to raise legal, ethical, and academic challenges, the launch of CheggMate powered by ChatGPT is expected to impact the way students learn and teachers educate, with ongoing discussions about the role of AI in the educational landscape.
