University faculty members presented a roadmap for integrating AI into the state’s academic programs during Tuesday’s Board of Governors meeting, emphasizing the potential for AI to transform educational methodologies and enhance student learning experiences.

A trio of university faculty members from across Florida laid out a roadmap for Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration into the state’s academic programs during Tuesday’s Board of Governors (BOG) meeting, drawing attention to the technology’s potential to redefine educational approaches.

The discussion, featuring insights from Dr. Joel Davis of the University of Florida, Dr. Paul Marty of Florida State University, and Dr. Sherry Rankins-Robertson of the University of Central Florida, pointed to an evolving role that AI holds in enhancing teaching methodologies and student learning experiences.

Davis opened the conversation by highlighting a gap present between the availability of AI technology and its practical application in education and business sectors. Drawing on his background in analytics and AI, he pointed to the necessity of moving beyond traditional academic frameworks to equip students with hands-on AI skills.

“The gap really is not one of technology, it’s really one of adoption,” Davis stated, proposing an AI initiative at the University of Florida that would see AI integrated into every aspect of the educational journey, from basic undergraduate courses to advanced research projects.

The discussion then transitioned to focus on the potential of generative AI in personalizing education. All three faculty members discussed a hypothetical educational strategy where AI could serve as an on-demand personal tutor for students, accessible anytime and anywhere. This tool, they collectively asserted, would not only assist in understanding course material but also in applying knowledge in practical scenarios.

Potential uses of generative AI as discussed would involve the creation of customized learning pathways for students or generating real-world problem-solving simulations in various disciplines, from engineering to humanities.

“I think the biggest opportunity is in AI for our students, especially in the classroom — it’s not one we’ve fully realized,” said Davis. “But I think it’s probably the most profound transformation that we’re gonna see in education, maybe in my lifetime. And that’s generative AI…it’s an opportunity to have personalized tutor or teaching assistant at their fingertips.”

Conversation also focused on the concept of implementing AI into the fabric of all academic disciplines, in order to ensure that every student attending a state university gains a fundamental understanding and proficiency in AI, irrespective of their major. Generative AI, particularly, was spotlighted for its potential as a personalized learning tool, offering students around-the-clock assistance.

The ethical deployment of AI in educational settings arose as a point of discussion, with presenters advocating for a comprehensive framework to guide the responsible use of AI technologies, which the faculty members stated involves not just understanding AI’s capabilities but also grappling with its broader societal implications.

They suggested developing courses to examine AI’s societal impact, data privacy issues, and the necessity for human oversight within AI systems as it is further developed as an emerging technology.

Collaboration was also identified as a pertinent issue, with calls for a cohesive strategy across Florida’s universities to share AI resources, discoveries, and effective practices. The proposal for creating an AI consortium was put forward, envisioning a platform that would encourage the exchange of knowledge and cultivate a statewide network of AI experts and learners.

The discussion also ventured into the importance of AI literacy for both students and faculty. Robertson elucidated a need for initiatives that educate the university community on AI basics, its applications, and broader effects. Such initiatives, she said, could include mandatory introductory AI courses for newcomers and ongoing professional development for faculty.

“The essential abilities that people need to live, learn, and work in our digital world through AI-driven technologies,” she said. “This literacy extends beyond mere familiarity with AI tools, encompassing a deep understanding of their application, ethical use, and impact on society.”

Board members expressed general support towards the proposals, acknowledging AI’s capacity to innovate education and workforce preparation across Florida. They deliberated on establishing state-wide AI education standards and probing into funding avenues for integrating AI into university curriculums.

“I think when our students who leave the university and enter their careers with knowledge about AI that their peers who have been in their careers longer don’t have, it’ll give them a real leg up in their careers,” said Board Trustee Edward Haddock, who chairs the BOG Innovation and Online Committee. “And I think that’s an important part of our mission and it’s clear we’re really focused on that.”