• Generative AI systems like ChatGPT and Github Copilot make developers' lives easier by speeding up tasks such as code optimization, testing, and data analysis.
• Schools and training organizations such as Simplon and Holberton are adjusting their methods to include training on the appropriate use of AI.
• Students still need to master the basics so that over-reliance on AI does not compromise code quality.
Whether it's automating tasks, optimizing and testing code, debugging, or analyzing data, artificial intelligence is making developers' lives so much easier that even Apple is planning to launch its own product to compete with GitHub Copilot, the Microsoft coding assistant that has become a reference for web developers. In the long term, many analysts believe that generative artificial intelligence will facilitate the development of code with better support for security that is better tested and better aligned with compliance regulations. At least on paper, all indications are that while the overall quality of software can be expected to improve, developer work will no longer require the same level of expertise. However, the reality may be more complex. Training organizations are already adapting their methods simply because developers need to learn new skills to adapt to this new paradigm in the coding world.
Remember that AI cannot yet generate clean functional code.
For Julien Seal of the French branch of the international Holberton School of Computer Science, the use of AI is another natural progression in the history of coding. “In the 1970s, coding was done using documents, dictionaries, translation tools, etc., but over time, these tools were gradually replaced by digital resources and online platforms that simplified development efforts. AI is just another step in the ongoing simplification process.” However, Cyr admits that generative AI tools: “Students tend to take the easy way out or cheat rather than try to understand. But remember that AI does not have the ability to write clean, functional code.”
Solving the mysteries of generative AI
For Matthew Giannechini, deputy general manager at Simplon, another IT school that has trained 30,000 students over the past 10 years, the top priority is making sure teachers understand new technology. “We need to make sure they don’t get tossed around by students who are quick to embrace generative AI in development and infrastructure jobs.” Currently, all students at the school are participating in workshops on generative AI. “The goal is to demystify these tools and give students a deeper understanding of them as they will later use them in the context of their projects.” At the same time, Giannecchini believes students need to master the basics before understanding generative AI. “Before using GitHub Copilot, you need to know how to pilot.“We also point out that the quality of the code produced by new technologies does not necessarily reach zero, for example when functionality needs to be added to an existing application. Especially for development-focused programmers and training courses, Simplon goes further: “We want our users to develop their skills with our tools. For example, they can learn how to use a particular library in an image recognition project.”
Integrate generative AI into student work environments
“Generative AI tools are an essential part of our work environment.” Julian Seal points out. “In short, we encourage students to seek help from ChatGPT before seeking help from a technology coach. Its purpose is to encourage students to develop their autonomy.”” Holberton is furthering its program with only three coaches for every 200 students. In addition to its e-learning platform and peer-to-peer training, the school encourages collective effort by offering students from all over the world the opportunity to work on the same project. And, as you might have guessed, we've also developed our own auto-correct tools to monitor your progress. Finally, as Mathieu Giannecchini is quick to point out, competency is key in web development. “You can't blindly trust a particular tool.ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot may be the go-to tools for today's students, but there's no guarantee that this will always be the case.
