Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the new disruptor everyone’s talking about. It’s a buzzword that has people looking for ways to get in on the action but the truth is it isn't anything new, it is something that has been around for years.
Why is AI important?
AI is evolving at a rapid rate, and it's transforming industries from education and healthcare to customer service and banking. And it won't stop there. AI will only continue to grow in importance as more and more tasks are automated with computer programs. After all, it has the potential to transform how we operate.
What is AI?
Artificial intelligence delivers the promise of automation with the use of algorithms. It is the use of machines to simulate, model, or mimic cognitive functions that humans perform, especially the ability to reason and think abstractly. AI is a computer science that is used to refer to a variety of technologies that are powered by advanced algorithms. It is a fast-moving field. New technologies and applications come out all the time, and there are many competing definitions and uses of the term. At the heart of AI is machines' ability to perform human-like tasks.
How is AI used in our daily lives?
If you have a device, you have experienced AI, whether you know it or not. Think about the last time you used google maps or another navigation service - you are using AI-enabled technology to travel from one place to another. Or, you could use Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, all different forms of AI. Social media also feeds heavily use AI to control the feeds you see while browsing platforms or the notifications you are seeing. Or, if you have Netflix, Stan or any other streaming services, these are all AI at work with videos and music you listen to most coming up with suggestions.
How is AI used in education?
There is no doubt that AI is having a significant impact on higher education. It is already helping the way we teach and learn. Although it can improve the efficiency of Higher Education by automating processes, there are other ways it is being used. Let's not forget Microsoft's 'Tay' AI bot that was taken down after less than 24 hours on Twitter in 2016. Although it was created using natural language processing to understand and respond to user emotions, it lacked the emotional intelligence (EI) we see in more AI today. Although there are some reasons to be wary, we also have to embrace it and look at ways in which it can enhance the learner experience. So, what are some examples of artificial intelligence used in Higher Education?
Personalised learning experiences: from chatbots to interventions, AI can provide an experience based on the learners' interactions.
Accessibility: there are many examples of this, and one I love is the M365 Word Translator, which translates documents at a click of a button.
Text generators: whether you are looking for some article ideas or need some support checking your grammar, there are many apps, such as Grammarly, that can guide you to make informed decisions around grammar and punctuation.
Immersive learning experiences using AI systems: Today's healthcare system leverages AI, so we need to ensure we are providing these experiences in higher education; from diagnosis; personalised recommendations; and prediction models, we can use AI to support learners.
Summary
AI is getting more traction, and more people are talking about it, so how can you leverage AI in your learner experience to ensure you are providing the best experience possible? I encourage you to think of the AI around you now, the benefits and challenges, and, most importantly, how it can help you shape education.
