Utilizing ChatGPT in a Data Structures and Algorithms Course: A Teaching Assistant's Perspective

ChatGPT, exploring how structured prompts and active TA support can enhance educational outcomes. Our work also integrates Integrating large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT is revolutionizing two versions of ChatGPT--ChatGPT-4o and ChatGPT o1--each contributing the field of computer science education. These models uniquely: ChatGPT-4o supports routine educational tasks, offer new possibilities for enriching student learning and supporting while ChatGPT o1 enhances complex problem-solving through improved teaching assistants (TAs) in providing prompt feedback and reasoning, thereby addressing the limitations of using LLMs supplementary learning resources. This research delves into the use independently. of ChatGPT in a data structures and algorithms (DSA) course, particularly when combined with TA supervision. The findings demonstrate that incorporating ChatGPT with structured prompts and RQ1: How does ChatGPT impact students' learning and active TA guidance enhances students' understanding of intricate exam readiness when supervised by TAs? algorithmic concepts, boosts engagement, and elevates academic performance. However, challenges exist in addressing academic RQ2: What challenges arise in utilizing ChatGPT to answer integrity and the limitations of LLMs in tackling complex problems.