AI Month - The Importance of Fact-Checking When Using AI for Research

In the previous blog, we discussed how ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for vocational educators by reducing cognitive overload and making research easier. However, while AI tools like ChatGPT can be extremely helpful, they are not perfect. One crucial step when using AI for research is fact-checking.

In this follow-up, we’ll explore why fact-checking is essential when using AI, what ChatGPT is particularly good at, and where it leaves room for improvement. This will help you get the most out of AI while ensuring the information you use is accurate and reliable.

Why Is Fact-Checking Important?

ChatGPT and similar AI tools rely on a vast amount of data to generate responses. However, the information they provide is not always current, completely accurate, or verified. AI tools are great at giving general information, summaries, and suggestions, but they don’t replace human judgement or expertise.

Here are a few reasons why fact-checking is important when using AI for research:

• AI may not have access to real-time data: While AI can generate insights based on the information it was trained on, it doesn’t have access to real-time databases, meaning that recent developments or updates may be missed.
• Context can be misunderstood: AI tools may sometimes misinterpret your query or give answers that are relevant but not exactly what you were looking for.
• Biases in the data: AI systems are trained on large datasets, which may include outdated or biased information. It’s important to cross-check with reliable sources to avoid propagating incorrect or skewed data.

What Is ChatGPT Good At?

ChatGPT excels in several areas that make it a useful tool for educators:

1. Generating Ideas and Summaries
   ChatGPT is excellent at quickly summarising complex topics, breaking down difficult concepts, and suggesting ideas for lessons or activities. It can give you a broad overview of a topic in a way that saves you time.

   Example: If you ask ChatGPT for a summary of workplace safety regulations, it can provide a general outline of key concepts and practices that you can then use as a starting point for further research.

2. Providing Inspiration
   ChatGPT is a great brainstorming partner. Whether you’re looking for creative ways to teach a topic or examples to illustrate a point, it can offer ideas and suggestions that spark your own creativity.

   Example: Need a fresh case study for teaching ethical decision-making? ChatGPT can generate a few scenario ideas to get you started.

3. Answering Common Questions
   For well-known topics and general questions, ChatGPT can give quick and accurate answers. This is especially useful when you need to explain a basic concept or clarify something in simple terms for your learners.

   Example: If you’re preparing a lesson on communication skills, ChatGPT can quickly list the key components of effective communication.

4. Supporting Organisation
   AI can help organise your thoughts by providing structured outlines or breaking tasks down into steps. This is helpful for lesson planning or developing assessments.

   Example: If you’re creating an assessment on time management, ChatGPT can help you draft a plan or checklist of skills to assess.

Where Does ChatGPT Leave Room for Improvement?

While ChatGPT is good at many things, there are areas where it requires caution and where human judgement plays a key role:

1. Accuracy of Information
   ChatGPT may sometimes present information that is inaccurate, outdated, or incomplete. It can give general answers based on older data or summarise content in ways that overlook nuances. This is why fact-checking against trusted, up-to-date sources is vital.

   Example: If ChatGPT provides details about industry regulations or legislation, it’s essential to cross-check this information with official resources to ensure you’re using the latest version.

2. Lack of Specialisation
   ChatGPT is designed to be versatile and handle a wide range of topics. However, it may not always go into the depth required for highly specialised fields. While it can provide a good starting point, you may need to consult subject matter experts or detailed resources for specific or complex queries.

   Example: ChatGPT can give an overview of electrical safety, but for detailed compliance requirements in a specific trade, you should refer to official safety guidelines or industry experts.

3. Context and Nuance
   AI may struggle to fully grasp the context of your query or the nuance behind certain topics. While it can offer answers, those responses may sometimes miss the point of what you’re really asking, especially with ambiguous questions.

   Example: If you’re researching a niche issue like the ethics of social media use in the workplace, ChatGPT may offer general information on ethics but miss the specific angle you’re focusing on.

4. Citing Sources
   ChatGPT doesn’t typically provide citations for the information it gives. If you need to reference specific studies, articles, or data, it’s up to you to find and verify the sources. This is crucial in research, where accurate and reliable references are needed.

   Example: If you’re writing a report or assessment and need to back up claims with data, you’ll still need to consult and cite original sources.

How to Fact-Check When Using ChatGPT

When using ChatGPT for research, here are a few tips to ensure the accuracy of the information:

• Cross-reference with trusted sources: Always verify AI-generated information by consulting reliable sources like government websites, industry reports, academic journals, or textbooks.
• Check for recent updates: Since AI may not have access to the most current information, make sure to look up the latest developments, particularly for laws, regulations, or industry standards.
• Seek specialised advice: For complex or niche topics, consult experts or detailed resources that focus specifically on your area of interest.
• Use multiple sources: Don’t rely on one source alone. Cross-referencing multiple trusted sources can help confirm the accuracy and completeness of the information.

Final Thoughts

While ChatGPT is a fantastic tool for VET educators, offering efficiency and creativity, it’s important to remember that it’s not a substitute for critical thinking or expert knowledge. Always take the time to fact-check the information you receive and ensure that your research is built on reliable, up-to-date, and accurate sources.

By combining the strengths of AI with a commitment to accuracy and thorough research, you can confidently use ChatGPT to enhance your teaching while maintaining the highest standards of information quality.