Wisconsin universities embrace AI
Wisconsin universities are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and planning to expand its use across all 13 universities.
MADISON (WKOW) — Wisconsin universities are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and plan to expand its use across all 13 universities.
Whether it’s using AI to answer homework questions or brainstorm ideas, technology is increasingly integrated into everyday life.
UW President Jay Rothman said he is moving to invest more in AI, saying he intends to discuss expanding its use at universities with the UW Board of Trustees at a meeting Thursday.
“We’re preparing students for the future. Not only do we want to make sure they’re proficient in AI, but we also want to make sure they have the lasting skills that will allow them to move from job to job,” Rothman said.
Rothman said they will continue to address ethical concerns and conduct more research on how AI can help improve the lives of students, faculty and administration.
“Our AI research is already affecting healthcare, manufacturing and much more. We strive to work with partners in this area,” Rothman said.
AI is something that Min-Seok Pang, professor of information and analytics at UW Madison, has talked about with his students.
“Banning AI in a classroom is like banning a calculator in a classroom,” Pang said. “I encourage them [his students] to use it responsibly and judiciously. I think that’s what employers want. »
Pang says he’s still concerned about the dangers of using AI in the classroom, but wants his students to remain responsible if they decide to use the tool.
“If you use the AI result and submit it as your work, and if it is not prepared, if it has an error, it is your responsibility,” Pang said.
Pang mentioned that many professors at the UW Madison School of Business are still adjusting to integrating AI into the classroom. He believes this is an important skill that has come true when it comes to schoolwork.
He says it could be a challenge, but he’s confident people will be able to adapt.
UW Madison students say using AI in the classroom has become routine as they work on assignments.
“I like to send in a practice test and have them create even more practice problems for me,” said sophomore Zoe Zobel.
“Learning how to use it now and integrating it so that we are ready for our future careers is also very helpful,” said sophomore Alice Carr.
But even though students are already using the technology widely, they are also aware of the dangers.
“I don’t think it should replace your knowledge, and I don’t think it should replace what you’re supposed to do in your classes and what you’re supposed to learn, but I think it’s a great way to get more information about what you’re trying to learn,” sophomore Cece Deryuter said.
Pang says that every semester his class changes, whether it’s adapting to changing AI technology or keeping up with the current curriculum.
