Unpacking Discussions of ChatGPT in 25 Education-Related Subreddits

• In Event: Educator Perceptions and Uses of AI

Abstract

This study explores early discussions about and responses to a generative AI tool, ChatGPT, within 25 education-related subreddits on Reddit. Employing the SWOT analysis framework, we analyzed 7,009 posts and comments discussing ChatGPT. Our results demonstrated that discussions most often focused on ChatGPT’s potential negative impacts on education, although the tool’s complex and multifaceted aspects and applications were also considered. Among the 25 education-related subreddits, ChatGPT discussions occurred predominately in the r/Professors and r/Teachers subreddits, and users’ responses to ChatGPT vary depending on how the tool is used in a specific context. We discuss our findings in relation to emerging discussions of generative AI in education and make recommendations for research beyond initial reactions to these tools.

Authors

• Hunhui Na, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Bret Staudt Willet, Florida State University

• Dan He, Florida State University

• Chaewon Kim, Florida State University

• Hui Shi, Florida State University

• Jaesung Hur, Florida State University