US University Faces Controversy Over ChatGPT-Written Tribute for Michigan Shooting Victims

Students' Fierce Criticism Leads to Eventual Apology

[Asia Economy Reporter Seungwoo Choi] A university in the United States became embroiled in controversy after writing a condolence message about the shooting incident at Michigan State University last week using the AI text generation system ChatGPT.

According to reports from Business Insider and Bloomberg on the 18th (local time), the Peabody College Office at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee sent a condolence email to students regarding the Michigan State University shooting.

On the afternoon of the 13th, a shooting occurred at Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing, Michigan, resulting in at least three deaths and at least five serious injuries.

The condolence message consisted of five paragraphs, stating, "The recent shooting incident at Michigan State University reminds us of the importance of creating an environment where everyone embraces each other. We must continue to strive to create a safe and inclusive environment."

However, the email included a phrase at the end indicating that it was quoted from OpenAI's ChatGPT, revealing that the office had written the message using ChatGPT, which led to strong criticism from students.

On the 14th (local time), a student at Michigan State University mourns the victims at the memorial site. [Image source=Yonhap News]

Freshman Marta Cheson said, "This seems less like genuine concern for the community and more like a mandatory email," adding, "I am disappointed by the lack of empathy for those suffering from the tragedy."

Senior Reese Kayat, whose younger sibling attends Michigan State University, also criticized, saying, "Having a computer write such a message is a disgusting act."

As the controversy grew, the school belatedly apologized. Vice Dean Nicole Joseph said, "We believe in the message of inclusivity sent via email. However, using ChatGPT in response to such a tragedy contradicts the values our university holds dear."

Vice Dean Joseph added, "This case will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the fact that we still have much to learn about all new technologies affecting education, including AI."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.