Growing Up LLMs: The Evolution of Language Models

In this milestone 10th episode of ChatEDU (AI for Good: The Literacy Component We Might Be Missing) hosts Matt Mervis and Liz Radday explore how US attitudes towards AI impacts our perspective and potentially narrows how we define AI literacy for students. 

First in the news: 

Segment 1: AI's Role in Reading

• Matt discusses the less highlighted role of AI in reading compared to writing, featuring insights from Marc Watkins who addresses the potential risks AI poses to developing deep reading and analytical skills.

Segment 2: Labor in Developing Nations and AI

• Liz examines the significant yet overlooked contribution of labor from developing nations in shaping generative AI outputs, highlighting ethical considerations and impacts on language, with a focus on the overuse of the word "delve."

Segment 3: Google's AI Tool for English Language Learners

• Matt introduces Google's new generative AI tool designed to assist English language learners through interactive and scenario-based learning, enhancing their practical communication skills.

Segment 4: Generative AI and Trust in Educational Settings

• Liz unpacks a study concerning how generative AI influences trust in student-teacher relationships, discussing the challenges and the evolving expectations that both parties face in an AI-integrated educational environment.

Chat Back: Listener Question

The episode concludes with a listener's question about how to best explain AI to high school students, stressing the importance of understanding AI beyond just generative models and incorporating real-world applications that students encounter daily.