As artificial intelligence technology continues to revolutionize various aspects of our lives, it’s also increasingly transforming the education industry. Educational institutions must equip both students and faculty with the necessary tools to effectively adapt and integrate these technologies into the learning process. At Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California, the director of instructional technology, Jennifer Jacobson, is leading the charge on integrating AI-powered writing tool, ChatGPT, into the classroom.
The university has created a unique program that empowers students by providing hands-on experience with the AI tool while training faculty to effectively teach and guide the tool’s usage. Students are able to leverage ChatGPT to produce well-structured and grammatically correct writing while honing their critical thinking, research and communication skills.
However, it’s important to note that students must also recognize the limitations of ChatGPT. While this tool excels in organization and structure, it does not replace the importance of accurate research and proper citation. Being aware of these limitations ensures students view ChatGPT as a complementary tool that enhances their abilities rather than a substitute for critical thinking.
To ensure AI technology is incorporated responsibly and ethically, the university has organized workshops for faculty to equip them with the knowledge and strategies necessary to navigate the complexities of AI’s impact on instruction. Speaking at the Center for Teaching and Learning, director of teaching and learning at CUNY’s Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, Jeremy Caplan shared his experiences of how he’s using ChatGPT to increase productivity. This encourages faculty members to gain practical insights on how to incorporate AI technologies into their teaching methodologies and increase their own productivity.
To promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing, a ChatGPT roundtable discussion was held where faculty members from various disciplines could exchange experiences and collectively address challenges related to ChatGPT. This platform enabled faculty members to learn from one another and adapt their teaching practices to leverage AI technologies effectively.
Furthermore, PLNU’s library and writing center have organized drop-in sessions dedicated to answering questions and providing guidance related to ChatGPT. This comprehensive support ensures faculty members have access to expertise and support as they navigate the integration of AI into their courses. To further improve AI’s integration, Jacobson has recommended the inclusion of an AI statement in the PLNU course syllabus. This statement would outline the expectations for AI usage in each course, promoting the responsible use of ChatGPT throughout students’ academic journeys.
Point Loma Nazarene University is determined to empower both students and faculty in the age of AI. The institution provides students with hands-on experience while promoting critical thinking, and faculty members have learned to adapt their teaching practices by leveraging AI technologies effectively. By taking this comprehensive approach, they can lead the way in preparing students for a world where human intelligence and AI become increasingly intertwined.
