Initial discussions of ChatGPT in education-related subreddits

Abstract

Generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, have ignited global discussions and debates about potential educational impacts. By examining initial reactions to ChatGPT shared in online spaces, this study aims to deepen understanding of opportunities and concerns related to integrating such tools into education. With the keyword “chatgpt,” we searched 25 education-related subreddits on Reddit and conducted a content analysis of 7,009 posts and comments, identifying 4,397 containing reactions to the tool. Findings showed that initial ChatGPT discussions predominantly focused on perceived threats and educational applications, much less on strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities—although the discussions were multifaceted, nuanced, and contextualized.

Keywords:

• ChatGPT
• generative AI
• educators
• reactions
• perceptions
• social media
• Reddit

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hunhui Na

Hunhui Na is a doctoral candidate in the Instructional Systems & Learning Technologies program at Florida State University. His research focuses on designing, developing, and evaluating technology-enhanced learning environments for STEM+CS learning and teacher training.

K. Bret Staudt Willet

K. Bret Staudt Willet, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Instructional Systems & Learning Technologies at Florida State University. His research investigates self-directed learning, specifically, how self-directed learners navigate social connections through the internet and exploration through games.

Hui Shi

Hui Shi is a doctoral student in Instructional Systems & Learning Technologies at Florida State University. Her research focuses on using learning analytics and education data mining to support online learning participation and collaboration.

Jaesung Hur

Jaesung Hur is a doctoral student in the Instructional Systems & Learning Technologies program at Florida State University. Her research interests focus on students’ engagement in online learning through technology integration and inclusive course design.

Dan He

Dan He, Ph.D., received her doctoral degree from Instructional Systems & Learning Technologies at Florida State University. Her research investigates the critical use of social media to support self-directed learning across life contexts.

Chaewon Kim

Chaewon Kim is a doctoral student in the Department of Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences at Florida State University. Her research interests involve designing meaningful learning experiences through various instructional strategies, especially games.