AI Tutors ChatGPT vs Gemini Who Teaches Better

The Dawn of the AI Tutor

We've all heard of the 'Google effect'—our tendency to forget information because we know it's just a quick search away. Now, we're facing the 'AI effect.' With generative AI, we can have anything summarized, written, or explained for us, which could mean less need for us to actually think. Why read Othello when ChatGPT can give you the plot points? Why learn to code if Gemini can write it for you?

This new reality has significantly impacted the education sector. In response, both ChatGPT and Gemini have launched dedicated modes designed to teach and educate, rather than just provide answers. Could these features help us learn more effectively and combat AI-induced brain drain? I decided to put them to the test.

Getting Started with AI Learning Modes

Both platforms have made their educational tools accessible to all users, regardless of whether you have a paid subscription.

ChatGPT: Study Mode

OpenAI has introduced 'Study Mode,' described as a learning experience that guides you through problems step-by-step. It's designed for a variety of uses, from homework help to test preparation and more.

To activate it on the web, click the + button next to the prompt box and select More > Study and learn. In the mobile app, tap the + button and then Study and learn. A 'Study' chip will appear, confirming the mode is active.

Once enabled, you can ask your questions. You may need to specify that you want to 'learn' or 'study' a topic. You'll know it's working when the AI breaks down answers into steps and asks you questions to check your understanding.

Gemini: Guided Learning

Google's version is called 'Guided Learning.' According to Google, it adapts explanations to your needs to help you build knowledge. Currently, this feature is available on the web and is rolling out to mobile apps.

To start, click the three dots at the bottom of the prompt box in the Gemini web app and choose Guided Learning.

Similar to ChatGPT, you might need to be explicit about your intent to learn. When presented with a problem, Guided Learning kicks in by providing small bits of information followed by questions to test your comprehension, creating a more conversational flow.

How the Study Modes Stack Up

I tested both AIs across three different subjects to see how their teaching styles compared.

First, I asked them to teach me the basics of DNA. Both AIs started with simple concepts and progressively moved to more complex ones, checking my understanding along the way. However, their methods differed. ChatGPT's questions were direct, ensuring I had read the text it provided. Gemini’s questions were more thought-provoking, asking me to make comparisons, like what a DNA double helix resembles.

Next, I posed a specific math problem involving combinatorics. Gemini was the clear winner here. It guided me through the concepts carefully, provided helpful context, and explained my mistakes in detail using simpler examples. ChatGPT was more prescriptive, telling me what to do with less explanation. I got to the answer faster with ChatGPT, but I learned less. Both AIs offered more practice questions afterward.

Finally, I had them teach me about a famous historical battle. ChatGPT was quick and to the point, sprinkling in a few questions to test my memory of the facts. Gemini took a more scenic route, using prompts to make me think about cause and effect and offering more background context. It was a more thorough and detailed approach.

The Verdict: Which AI Is the Better Teacher?

These study modes aren't radically different from a normal AI conversation where you ask the chatbot to test you. They are far from being true AI tutors. However, there is a clear distinction in their approach.

ChatGPT is faster and more direct, making it useful if you want to get to an answer quickly. Gemini’s Guided Learning is more conversational and thought-provoking, making it a more rewarding and helpful option if you genuinely want to understand a subject. For now, Gemini's approach feels closer to actual teaching and is worth trying for any curious learner.

Disclosure: Lifehacker’s parent company, Ziff Davis, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in April, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.