Calculators, the internet and even Wikipedia each changed education when they became accessible to students at all levels of education. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the latest game-changing tool that academic institutions have to engage with. Butler County Community College (BC3) and Slippery Rock University (SRU) have formed task forces to examine the use of AI in academic work, communicating with their administrations to define a path forward. The rapid rollout of generative AI means these institutions are studying its uses and potential "while the plane is already in the air." Brian Danielson, leader of SRU’s AI study group and director of the Center for Teaching and Learning, noted that the goal is to foster a culture where faculty understands AI and integrates it into the curriculum as a tool, not a shortcut. At BC3, Michael Dittman leads Project Beta, now in its second phase after a year of exploring AI uses with college staff to streamline workflows. This phase involves presenting findings to BC3 president Megan Coval for direction on AI implementation. Both schools are focused on establishing ethical and productive ways for instructors and students to engage with AI in academic settings, defining its boundaries in student work.
Weighing the options
Michael Dittman, leader of BC3's Project Beta task force, noted that a key objective is to share useful aspects of AI with local businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities, enabling them to simplify workloads. The college plans to potentially offer community classes to small government administrators on utilizing these AI tools, enhancing BC3's role as a community resource. This initiative aims to make BC3 more outward-facing and responsive to community needs. Dittman emphasized that the task force's formation wasn't to restrict AI use, but to understand how it can support student learning and prepare them for future careers. Many students are already familiar with AI, and the college seeks to equip them with essential AI skills, ensuring they are 'future-proof' and highly sought after by employers regardless of their major. Both BC3 and SRU have integrated AI into various curriculums, particularly in information technology and computer-related fields. Brian Danielson highlighted that some university professors are experts in AI technologies like ChatGPT and use AI to design instructional content, prepare students for the workplace, and promote responsible AI use in the classroom.
Planning for years ahead
The BC3 task force is actively involving students in developing appropriate AI usage guidelines for the campus. The college is implementing a multi-year phased approach for AI integration and use, with Dittman and other task force members regularly submitting progress reports. These phases are designed to systematically plan for the long-term impact and benefits of AI. Discussions about AI's use and effects on higher education extend beyond administrators and professors, with students also engaging critically. Dittman mentioned productive conversations with students skeptical of AI, some initially viewing any use as cheating. He consistently pushes back, asserting that AI is a tool, not inherently cheating, while also acknowledging and discussing student concerns, such as environmental impacts. Dittman has scheduled a meeting with BC3 president Megan Coval to present the initial findings of the AI task force. Similarly, at SRU, Timothy Slekar, associate provost for academic innovation, is involved in the AI study group. This cross-departmental alignment ensures a consistent understanding of AI use across the university. The prevailing understanding is that AI is a tool for learning, not a replacement for genuine intellectual effort. Danielson reiterated that the goal is to encourage students to learn the material, not seek shortcuts. He also acknowledged the autonomy of professors to adapt their teaching methods in response to evolving technology, stating that educators must continually adjust to new generations and technological advancements.
