Harvard University Develops AI-Assisted Teaching Tool CS50.ai Based on GPT
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When ChatGPT first emerged, many universities banned the use of ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and other AI-assisted tools to prevent student cheating. Harvard University realized that failing to leverage the powerful potential of AI to enhance the learning process would be a missed opportunity. Therefore, they actively developed an AI-assisted teaching tool based on GPT, aiming to apply generative artificial intelligence in computer science education.
Address: https://top.aibase.com/tool/cs50-ai
This tool includes three main features: First is the "Explain Highlighted Code" feature for explaining selected code segments. Second is an enhanced version of the style50 code evaluation tool that provides optimization guidance similar to human instructors. Finally, there's CS50 Duck, a chatbot capable of answering course-related questions across multiple platforms.
Technically, the chat functionality is built on OpenAI's ChatCompletion API, while question answering utilizes RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation). Usage frequency is controlled through a visible heart counter system. Each student starts with 10 hearts, which regenerate at a rate of one heart every three minutes. Every interaction with CS50 Duck consumes one heart, preventing abuse while helping control operational costs.
Student feedback on these AI tools has been overwhelmingly positive. They report significant benefits, noting the tools help clarify confusing concepts and teach new knowledge required to solve specific problems. While there are some issues, such as a certain error rate in course-related questions, Harvard University has stated that they will continue to improve their AI teaching tools, such as homework grading, while also expanding the courses from CS50 to other disciplines. These initiatives have received positive responses from students, who believe that using AI tools to adapt early to working collaboratively with AI is excellent and does not hinder their learning.