Unleashing ChatGPT in Computer Science Education

Bryson Payne, coordinator for Cyber Programs at University of North Georgia

Bryson Payne, a trailblazing expert in cybersecurity, serves as the esteemed Coordinator for Cyber Programs at the University of North Georgia. With a passion for fostering the next generation of cyber professionals, Payne combines academic prowess with real-world experience, shaping innovative and dynamic educational initiatives for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

Please tell our readers about your journey in the industry.

I have 26 years of experience as an educator, specializing in computer science and cybersecurity. I've authored three books, which have been published by No Starch Press. At the University of North Georgia, I serve as a coach for multiple cyber teams and have achieved first place in the 2019 and 2020 NSA Codebreaker Challenge Cyber Operations Competition. Additionally, I am currently coaching reverse engineering for the US cyber teams from 2021 to 2024. Throughout my tenure at the University of North Georgia, I've held various roles, including being the inaugural department head of computer science and the founding director of the Center for Cyber Operations Education.

Please share any recent project initiatives you have been a part of.

We've been involved in some notable projects recently, particularly in leveraging Chat GPT within the computer science curriculum at the University of North Georgia. Firstly, we've observed promising applications in using Chat GPT to aid neurodiverse learners in outlining extensive assignments. The AI can assist in organizing thoughts, conducting initial research on common topics, allowing students to evaluate the generated content critically, and utilizing it as a foundation for their final drafts.

“The potential of generative AI, such as ChatGPT and its counterparts, holds promise as a versatile academic support tool. It can assist struggling students while also challenging those excelling in various fields like computer science or liberal arts.”

Another area where Chat GPT proves beneficial is in supporting computer science and cybersecurity students as they learn new programming languages. Students can seek assistance from Chat GPT or other AI bots to generate short programs in unfamiliar languages like Ruby, Rust, Go, C, or even assembly language.

Furthermore, AI serves as a valuable resource for junior developers, empowering computer science students in advanced courses such as software engineering to construct more intricate programs. Students take on the role of architects or senior developers, breaking down extensive projects into manageable components that Chat GPT can generate. They then need to assemble these components, rectify errors, and ensure the seamless integration of the larger project, mimicking the responsibilities of a software architect or senior developer in the industry.

Lastly, Chat GPT proves to be a useful tool for faculty in computer science and cybersecurity. Personally, I've utilized Chat GPT to create Capture the Flag exercises for my cyber teams' weekly practice and even generated new versions of programs for my advanced reverse engineering course, allowing for disassembly and modification. In essence, Chat GPT functions akin to having a new teaching assistant.

How do you envision the future of the industry?

I envision the future of the industry with generative AI continually improving. We'll likely witness a broader application of AI tutoring and mentoring on a larger scale. The potential of generative AI, such as ChatGPT and its counterparts, holds promise as a versatile academic support tool. It can assist struggling students while also challenging those excelling in various fields like computer science or liberal arts. However, there are concerns that generative AI might replace lower-level courses and learners, hindering the acquisition of foundational knowledge. Additionally, there's the possibility that in certain industries, AI like ChatGPT could substitute entry-level employees by generating tasks typically performed by them, such as legal briefs or user manuals. Despite these concerns, it's crucial for educators to explore and implement these technologies, considering the evolving landscape of the workplace where students are likely to encounter such advancements. The ultimate impact and realization of AI's potential remain to be seen, but proactive engagement seems essential for both educators and students.

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