Bots Gone Bad: Why Educators Should Pay Attention | Ep. 43

In this episode of ChatEDU, "Bots Gone Bad: Why Educators Should Pay Attention," Matt and Liz explore concerning developments in AI-driven chatbots and their implications for students and educators.

In the News:

Two new studies highlight different perspectives on AI in education. One study from Nigeria claims AI tutors significantly improved student performance, while another found an AI bot successfully completed a graduate course without detection. What does this mean for education? 

The World Economic Forum’s latest job report predicts a shift in workforce skills, emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s blueprint for economic progress highlights AI’s potential to personalize learning. Are we focusing on the right skills for the future? 

Sam Altman weighs in, stating that the most critical skill in the AI era is not knowledge itself, but the ability to ask the right questions. How does this align with current education trends? 

Beneath the Surface:

Financial AI Bots Preying on Vulnerable Users: AI-driven financial assistants, like Clio and Bright, are pushing high-interest loans and misleading financial advice to struggling users. Is AI truly helping or exploiting financial insecurity

Snapchat’s My AI Bot Under Fire: A new FTC complaint against Snapchat’s AI bot raises concerns about its responses to teenagers, including advice on concealing drug and alcohol use. The DOJ is now involved. 

SchoolAI’s Historical Figure Bots Get It Wrong: A bot role-playing as Anne Frank gave misleading responses about the Holocaust, sparking concerns about AI-generated historical narratives in classrooms.

These AI failures feed skepticism in education. How can educators maintain oversight while integrating AI tools in learning environments?

Short Stack Chat Back:

A reflection on the Luddites and their resistance to technology—are we seeing a modern-day parallel in AI adoption?

Links Referenced in This Episode:

Study on AI tutors in Nigeria https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/education/From-chalkboards-to-chatbots-Transforming-learning-in-Nigeria 

Study on AI bot completing a graduate course https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/aupha/jhae/2024/00000040/00000004/art00005#

World Economic Forum Job Report https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/

OpenAI's Blueprint for Economic Progress https://theafricalogistics.com/openai-unveils-bold-economic-blueprint-to-secure-u-s-ai-leadership/

Sam Altman Interview https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/13/openai-ceo-top-ability-you-need-to-succeed-age-of-ai-ask-great-questions.html  

Clio and Bright Financial Bots Report https://www.wired.com/story/ai-financial-advisers-apps-chatbots/ 

Snapchat’s My AI Bot FTC Complaint https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/16/snap-shares-drop-as-ftc-refers-complaint-to-the-doj.html 

SchoolAI Historical Figure Bots Controversy  https://futurism.com/the-byte/ai-anne-frank-blame-holocaust

In the News:Beneath the Surface:Short Stack Chat Back:Links Referenced in This Episode:"Protect Us" Video on AI and Child Safety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuH-D-au1Ho