Abstract:

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational landscapes presents unique opportunities and challenges, especially in programming and algorithmic instruction. This study examines the effectiveness and implications of using ChatGPT, an AI language model, as an interactive teaching tool in programming courses, with a specific focus on algorithm learning.

Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the research encompasses an extensive literature review coupled with interviews with educators who have implemented ChatGPT in their pedagogy. The literature review establishes a contextual understanding of AI's role in modern education, particularly in teaching complex subjects like programming. The educator interviews provide practical insights into the application of ChatGPT in classroom settings.

The findings indicate that ChatGPT significantly enhances student engagement and understanding of algorithms through interactive learning experiences and instant feedback. Educators observed marked improvements in students' algorithmic comprehension when ChatGPT was incorporated into their teaching strategies. The AI model's capacity to offer varied examples and tailor explanations also proved beneficial for diverse learning styles.

However, this integration is not without challenges. Concerns regarding academic integrity and the potential for plagiarism have emerged as significant issues. The ease with which students can access information through ChatGPT raises questions about the authenticity of their work and the development of critical thinking skills. Educators are therefore tasked with devising new assessment methods and integrity policies to ensure that the use of AI tools like ChatGPT augments rather than undermines educational goals.

In conclusion, while ChatGPT offers transformative potential in programming education, particularly in teaching algorithms, it also necessitates a reevaluation of traditional academic frameworks. This research underscores the need for innovative assessment strategies and integrity safeguards in the era of AI-assisted education. Future studies could explore how these challenges can be effectively addressed to fully harness the benefits of AI in educational settings.

Keywords:

AI in Education, ChatGPT, Algorithm Teaching, Interactive Tools, Academic Integrity, Assessment Strategies, Student Engagement, Personalized Learning.