Generative AI and ChatGPT: 1. Use GenAI to Understand

Generative AI like ChatGPT is a powerful tool to help you study. Whilst you should never use it to produce any final, submitted work (and should always check with your Lecturer regarding using GenAI for any part of your studies), it can be useful in your study process.

ECU suggests using GenAI as a kind of "Study Buddy" to help you develop approaches to a topic or assessment, generate ideas, and review your understanding of a subject.

Some suggestions for how to use GenAI as a part of your study process are:

• Ask it to explain difficult concepts to you (try it in different ways):

  • PROMPT: “ChatGPT, you are a 1st year Nursing student at University, explain Foucault’s concept of ‘Disciplinary power’ in no more than five dot-points”

  • PROMPT: “I’m still not getting the ideas behind ‘Disciplinary power,’ can you describe it to me like you’re an old Scottish grandma?”

• Use it to help you brainstorm topics -- This can help you develop your argument, and search strategies:
  • PROMPT: "What are some related topics and keywords regarding Foucault's concept of "Disciplinary Power"?"
• Get it to quiz you on lecture notes and create practice questions for you to try:
  • PROMPT: "Ask me five review questions on 'Disciplinary Power.'"
  • HINT: Ask for more detailed follow-up questions.