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24.01.2025

ChatGPT

☕️
4 minutes reading time
6-17 years
Communication
Information
Apps
Article
Alexandra Koch / pixabay

“Just ask a chatbot!” – This could soon be the motto when it comes to searching for information or answering questions. ChatGPT, an AI-based chatbot, is becoming increasingly popular and is also being used more and more by children and young people. We provide an insight into the tool.

In a nutshell:

  • Artificial intelligence (AI): language model that has been trained on large volumes of text
  • Functions: Gives answers, writes texts, translates languages, helps with creative tasks, assists with organization and can be integrated into messaging services such as WhatsApp.
  • Developer: OpenAI
  • Registration: limited use without registration, free basic version with e-mail address and mobile phone number, paid version offers access to GPT-4, faster responses and Internet access.
  • Basic version free of charge
  • Age rating: According to the terms and conditions from 13 years of age, between 13 and 18 years of age use is only permitted with the consent of a parent or legal guardian. No official age check

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is a computer program that was developed using artificial intelligence (AI) to answer questions and create texts. It is based on huge amounts of data from various sources, such as books, news and conversations. Users can chat directly with the program – and in amazingly natural language. It can also be integrated into apps such as WhatsApp, making it even easier and more flexible to use.

The paid version of ChatGPT can also retrieve up-to-date information from the Internet. This function is particularly useful for answering questions about current events or trends. In the basic version, however, ChatGPT only has knowledge up to 2021, which can lead to outdated information.

A sample conversation

Question: Hey ChatGPT, I’m planning a birthday for my son. Can you help me?

ChatGPT: Sure! How old will your son be and what does he particularly like? Then we can collect ideas for games, decorations or food.

Question: He is nine and loves dinosaurs. Do you have any suggestions?

ChatGPT: How about a dinosaur treasure hunt in the garden? You can hide little dinosaur figures and draw a map. Dino-shaped cookies or muffins would also be a nice idea. Would you like me to find you a recipe?

Linus: Good idea! Can you give me any tips for invitations?

ChatGPT: Sure! You could make invitations in the shape of dinosaur tracks. On each track you write the details of the party and the kids can see it as a little adventure. Would you like me to make you a template?

What fascinates children and young people about it?

ChatGPT is easily accessible, fast and versatile. It can write creative texts, answer complex questions and communicate in different languages. For many, it feels like they are writing to a real person. The ability to write creative texts, answer complex questions and communicate in different languages inspires many. ChatGPT can also promote creativity and language comprehension.

Children and young people use ChatGPT for example for:

  • Find answers: Be it for school, a hobby or general curiosity.
  • Have texts written: From poems to synopses.
  • Conversation: Write with a virtual conversation partner.
  • Learning languages: translating texts or explaining difficult terms.
  • Creative projects: Develop ideas for stories or games.
  • Organization: Create planning tasks or to-do lists.

What can be problematic?

  • Inappropriate content: Despite filtering, children and young people may receive inappropriate or problematic content.
  • Incorrect information: Chatbots can give incorrect or inaccurate answers.
  • Data protection: Personal data can be at risk, especially when used in apps such as WhatsApp.
  • Outdated knowledge: In the basic version, the knowledge level is limited to 2021, which can lead to problems with current topics.
  • No substitute for real interaction: ChatGPT cannot provide emotional support.
  • Dependence: Children can rely too heavily on ChatGPT and neglect critical thinking.

What does the provider think?

According to OpenAI, children and young people should be protected as follows:

  • Filtering: ChatGPT avoids inappropriate, vulgar or offensive content.
  • Transparency: Answers often contain information on how information can be verified.
  • Education: OpenAI encourages critical use.

The provider also points out that users should be careful not to share personal data. It also points out that functions such as integration into apps should be used with caution.

What should parents pay attention to?

Explain to your child that not everything the chat program says is true or correct. ChatGPT has been trained with texts, and therefore only knows what it has seen. It can make mistakes. Encourage your child to think critically by encouraging them to question ChatGPT’s answers. Make sure your child verifies the information they receive with other sources. It’s best to try this out together and explain to him how to deal with disinformation.

The chatbot can assist with school-related tasks. For example, he can describe something in simple words. ChatGPT should not do homework for your child. Explain to your child that ChatGPT is a tool and not a perfect source. ChatGPT cannot think.

Stay in conversation with your child and educate them about dangerous content online. The chatbot has also been trained with texts that may be inappropriate for your child. Work out boundaries and rules for use together.

Explain to your child that they have a right to security and data protection. You and your child should not submit any personal information. Encourage your child to let you know if there is a problem. Make sure your child understands how to protect his or her privacy.

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