The realm of education is undergoing a transformation, spearheaded by the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this dynamic landscape, Generative AI, especially Large Language Models (LLMs) such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Bard, are revolutionizing how we approach specialized subjects, including environmental science.
Our research embarked on an ambitious journey to gauge the capabilities of two leading AI models: Google's Bard, powered by the Gemini model, and OpenAI's ChatGPT 4.0. We challenged these AI behemoths with fifty questions concerning coastal ecosystem management, assessing them across five critical metrics: accuracy, relevance, depth, creativity, and semantic clarity.
LLMs are not just tools for automating tasks; they are reshaping educational experiences by providing personalized learning paths and making information more accessible. However, the true effectiveness of these models hinges on the skills of educators to effectively guide student interactions with AI.
In our study, we found ChatGPT to be a versatile asset for educators, akin to a "Swiss Army Knife." It supports a range of educational activities from lesson planning to setting instructional goals and enhancing curriculum designs.
The primary aim of our research was to assess and compare the effectiveness of ChatGPT and Bard in responding to diverse queries related to coastal ecosystems. We devised a structured methodology involving the creation of specific prompts, collection of AI-generated responses, and subsequent expert evaluations.
Our analysis uncovered insightful revelations about the capabilities of both AI models. While they provided valuable responses, there was a noticeable lack of depth in many answers, underscoring the need for more refined prompt engineering.
This research underscores the vast potential and existing limitations of employing Generative AI in educational settings. The findings suggest that for AI to be truly effective in education, particularly in specialized fields like environmental science, there is a need for enhanced educational strategies.