ChatGPT Study Mode helps journalist conquer math trauma

Sharon Goldman, an AI reporter for Fortune, shares her personal journey with ChatGPT’s newly launched Study Mode, a feature designed to transform the AI into a personalized tutor. The tool, which debuted this week, uses Socratic questioning, hints, and step-by-step guidance to foster active learning—tailoring its approach to the user’s skill level and progress.

A Lifelong Struggle with Algebra

Goldman recounts her high school struggles with algebra, a subject she "completely bombed" despite excelling in other areas like English and social studies. The failure left her with lasting shame and unanswered questions about the purpose of algebra. Now, as a journalist covering AI, she sees Study Mode as an opportunity for a "redemption arc."

How Study Mode Works

• Personalized Tutoring: Instead of providing direct answers, Study Mode assesses the user’s knowledge and adapts its teaching style.
• Interactive Learning: Users can choose their pace, ask questions, and explore concepts like solving equations with variables.
• Engaging Approach: Described as "math with mystery," the tool makes abstract concepts relatable.

Goldman tested Study Mode by starting with basic algebra, asking, "What is algebra?" The AI responded:

"Algebra is the part of math where we stop just working with numbers and start working with relationships between numbers."

She progressed through solving equations, from simple (e.g., 3x + 4 = 19) to more complex problems, marveling at the AI’s ability to explain each step.

The Promise and Pitfalls of AI in Education

While Goldman highlights the potential of AI-powered tutoring, she acknowledges concerns:

• Risks: Over-reliance on AI, diminished critical thinking, and privacy issues.
• Global Impact: A report found that students in rural Colombia began failing exams after gaining access to AI tools.

Her colleague Jeremy Kahn, author of Mastering AI, argues that AI’s role as a one-on-one tutor could revolutionize education.

Broader AI News Highlights

1. Microsoft joined the EU’s AI Code of Practice, while Meta declined.
2. OpenAI launched Stargate Norway, its first European AI data center project.
3. AI researchers are being recruited like NBA stars, with companies offering nine-figure packages (NYT).

Goldman’s experiment with Study Mode underscores AI’s potential to democratize learning—even for those who thought they’d left math behind.