Potential of ChatGPT as a stimulus for the study of Natural Sciences in Distance Education

Abstract

This study was conducted within the scope of the Natural Sciences Education discipline, entirely delivered in the distance learning (DL) modality, designed for students enrolled in the Biological Sciences and Pedagogy teaching degree programs. The central purpose was to conceive and implement a challenge, leveraging the assistance provided by ChatGPT, with the aim of fostering creativity and active student participation. Through the virtual learning platform owned by the educational institution, students engaged in the exchange of information and mutual collaboration, where the mentioned challenge proved to be a notable increase in participant involvement. Furthermore, it was observed that this initiative facilitated an effective connection between the theoretical foundations addressed in the classroom and their practical application. The obtained results underscore the relevance of strategies aimed at promoting engagement in the DL context, especially in the concerned discipline. The challenge-centered approach proved to be effective in stimulating not only creativity but also critical thinking, contributing to the development of essential skills in the teacher training process in the respective field.

Keywords: ChatGPT; educação em ciências da natureza; educação a distância.