AI Goes to College

Craig Van Slyke
  • 4.8 (16)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY
AI Goes to College

Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has taken higher education by storm. Higher ed professionals need to find ways to understand and stay up with developments in GAI. AI Goes to College helps higher ed professionals learn about the latest developments in GAI, how these might affect higher ed, and what they can do in response. Each episode offers insights about how to leverage GAI, and about the promise and perils of recent advances. The hosts, Dr. Craig Van Slyke and Dr. Robert E. Crossler are an experts in the adoption and use of GAI and understanding its impacts on various fields, including higher ed.

  1. JUN 11

    AI's Disruption: What It Means for Knowledge Workers and Higher Ed

    The recent discussion between Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler centered around the alarming prediction from Anthropic's CEO regarding the potential displacement of up to 50% of entry-level knowledge work positions within the next five years due to advancements in generative AI. This assertion prompts a critical examination of the implications for higher education, particularly concerning the preparedness of graduates entering an increasingly automated workforce. Both hosts express skepticism about the immediacy and extent of such disruptions, emphasizing the necessity for educational institutions to adapt curricula to cultivate higher skill levels among students. They highlight the importance of fostering AI discernment and ethical considerations in the use of AI technologies, advocating for a proactive approach that prepares students for evolving job market demands. As the conversation unfolds, they underscore the urgent need for educators to engage in thoughtful dialogue and innovative practices to effectively equip students for the future. Takeaways: In recent discussions, a warning was issued stating that potentially half of knowledge work jobs may be eliminated due to AI advancements within the next five years, prompting significant concern among educators and industry professionals. The conversation emphasized the importance of preparing students for a future job market that increasingly favors higher-level skills, particularly in light of the potential displacement of entry-level positions by generative AI technologies. It was noted that while AI may lead to job displacement, it is also anticipated to create new job opportunities, suggesting a complex landscape where education must adapt to these shifting dynamics. The hosts discussed the necessity for higher education institutions to begin incorporating AI discernment into their curricula, ensuring that students understand the ethical implications and operational realities of AI usage in the workplace. The episode highlighted the unprecedented grassroots adoption of AI technologies, as individual workers leverage AI tools independently, often circumventing organizational policies or restrictions. The hosts concluded with a call to action for educators to embrace AI in their teaching, encouraging experimentation and risk-taking as essential components of evolving educational practices. Links referenced in this episode: Survey: aigostocollege.com/survey2025Article on NotebookLM's Mind Map: https://aigoestocollege.substack.com/p/notebooklms-mind-map-a-hidden-gem Mentioned in this episode: AI Goes to College Newsletter

    45 min

  2. MAY 13

    The Ethical Use of AI in Academia: A Conversation with Carlos I. Torres

    Imagine walking into a classroom where AI isn't the elephant in the room - it's a welcomed partner in learning. That's exactly what's happening in Carlos I. Torres's information security classes at Baylor University. Instead of joining the chorus of educators crying "Ban AI!" Torres is asking a more intriguing question: What if we taught students to dance with artificial intelligence rather than fight against it? In this fascinating discussion, Torres pulls back the curtain on his groundbreaking approach. He's not just teaching information security; he's reimagining how students learn in an AI-powered world. His students don't hide their use of AI - they showcase it, document it, and most importantly, learn to think critically about it. But here's what makes this conversation truly compelling: Torres isn't just preparing students for exams; he's equipping them for a future where AI will be as common as smartphones are today. As we explore the ethical tightropes and practical challenges of this approach, one thing becomes crystal clear: the future of education isn't about fighting AI - it's about learning to harness its power while keeping our human wisdom firmly in the driver's seat. Takeaways: The integration of AI within higher education necessitates a nuanced understanding of its capabilities and limitations. Carlos I. Torres emphasizes the importance of guiding students on effective AI usage to enhance their learning experience. Engaging students with AI prompts fosters critical thinking and deeper engagement in research assignments. The assessment of student work should encompass both the final product and the process of interacting with AI tools. Ethical considerations surrounding AI usage in academia are paramount, necessitating discussions around transparency and integrity. The future workforce must be equipped with skills to supervise AI agents, ensuring their outputs are trustworthy and effective. Companies mentioned in this episode: Washington State University Baylor University Mentioned in this episode: AI Goes to College Newsletter

    43 min

  3. APR 22

    Of Syllabi, Spells, and Structured Prompts: AI for Fall Teaching

    This podcast episode elucidates the necessity for higher education professionals to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications within the academic sphere. We, Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler, alongside our esteemed co-author France Belanger, delve into practical anecdotes regarding the integration of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, into pedagogical practices. Through illustrative narratives, we highlight both the advantages and limitations of AI, emphasizing the importance of expertise in ensuring accurate and reliable outcomes when employing these technologies. Furthermore, we discuss actionable strategies for faculty members to prepare for the upcoming academic term, advocating for the enhancement of syllabi and the generation of active learning exercises. Ultimately, we reinforce the imperative for educators to embrace AI, not merely as a technological advancement, but as a vital component of modern educational methodologies. Takeaways: Incorporating generative AI into educational practices necessitates an understanding of its limitations and capabilities. Faculty should actively engage with AI tools to enhance their teaching methodologies and improve student learning outcomes. Effective use of AI can streamline the process of creating educational materials, such as syllabi and assessments, thereby saving time. AI's role in generating content must be accompanied by critical evaluation to ensure accuracy and relevance in educational contexts. Links referenced in this episode: aigostocollege.comcraig@aigostocollege.comrob@aigostocollege.comWashingtonStateUniversity.com In an enlightening exploration of generative AI's role in educational environments, the podcast episode scrutinizes the intricate balance between technological assistance and the necessity for human oversight. The discussion is anchored by a personal narrative involving a Dungeons and Dragons gaming session that serves as both a metaphor and a case study for the broader implications of AI in education. As the hosts recount their experiences, they navigate the myriad challenges and advantages that AI presents, particularly in terms of efficiency and creativity. The episode emphasizes the essential role of educators in critically evaluating and refining the outputs generated by AI systems, thus ensuring that the integrity of educational content is preserved. Furthermore, the hosts advocate for a proactive approach to embracing AI technologies, encouraging educators to experiment and adapt rather than remain mired in traditional methodologies. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a clarion call for educational professionals to engage with AI thoughtfully, fostering not only personal growth but also the evolution of pedagogical practices in an era defined by rapid technological advancement. Mentioned in this episode: AI Goes to College Newsletter

    32 min

  4. MAR 4

    AI's Impact on Critical Thinking, the Talent Pipeline, and Academic Research: Implications for Higher Education

    In a timely discussion, Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler discuss the latest advancements in generative artificial intelligence, with a particular focus on the unveiling of Claude Sonnet 3.7. This development has prompted a wave of excitement and speculation regarding its implications for the future of programming. The hosts articulate their observations on how this model could revolutionize the way coding is approached, potentially rendering traditional entry-level programming roles obsolete while enhancing the efficiency of seasoned professionals. This raises critical questions about the evolving nature of job markets and the skills required in the face of such technological advancements. As the dialogue unfolds, the hosts transition to a discussion on the ethical and educational ramifications of integrating AI into academic environments. They express concerns regarding the diminishing emphasis on critical thinking skills, particularly among students who may rely heavily on AI-generated outputs. Van Slyke and Crossler emphasize the necessity for educators to not only familiarize themselves with these technologies but also to instill a sense of skepticism and analytical rigor in their students. This approach is vital for ensuring that future professionals are equipped to discern and evaluate the information generated by AI, fostering a culture of informed decision-making and innovation. Van Slyke and Crossler offer some interesting ways in which AI can be used to help students improve their critical thinking skills. The hosts also discuss how new AI tools, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT Deep Research may reshape the way in which academic research is done, for faculty and students. Higher ed professionals may need to rethink the very purpose of learning activities such as research papers. The episode concludes with a call to action for higher education institutions, urging them to rethink their pedagogical strategies in light of the rapid proliferation of AI technologies. By fostering a collaborative and adaptive educational environment, educators can empower students to harness the capabilities of generative AI responsibly, thereby paving the way for a future where technology and critical thinking coexist in ways that enhance critical thinking skills. Takeaways: The recent advancements in generative AI, particularly Claude Sonnet 3.7, have significant implications for coding practices across various disciplines. There exists a growing concern amongst educators regarding the potential displacement of entry-level programming jobs due to the capabilities of generative AI technologies. It is essential for higher education institutions to adapt their pedagogical approaches to effectively integrate generative AI into the curriculum for enhanced critical thinking. Generative AI tools can serve as valuable resources for academic research, but they must be used carefully to avoid over-reliance and ensure the integrity of scholarly work. The conversation around generative AI's impact on critical thinking skills reveals a dual potential for either degradation or enhancement based on how these tools are utilized. Educators need to cultivate a deeper understanding of generative AI technologies to guide students in their effective and ethical use in academic contexts. Companies mentioned in this episode: Anthropic OpenAI Microsoft Peapod Doordash Uber Eats Walmart Chewy Mentioned in this episode: AI Goes to College Newsletter

    36 min

  5. FEB 4

    Writing, AI, and the Transactional Trap: Rethinking Learning in Higher Ed

    In this wide-ranging discussion, Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler explore recent AI developments and tackle the fundamental challenges facing higher education in an AI-enhanced world. They begin by examining GPT Tasks, highlighting practical applications like automated news summaries and scheduled tasks, while sharing personal experiments that demonstrate the importance of playful exploration with new AI tools. The conversation then turns to Gemini's new fact-checking features, with important cautions about source verification and the need to balance convenience with critical evaluation of AI-generated content. The hosts have an engaging discussion about the challenge of "transactional education" - where learning has become a points-for-grades exchange - and explore alternative approaches like mastery-based learning and European assessment models. They discuss concrete strategies for moving beyond traditional grading schemes, including reducing assignment volume and focusing on process over outcomes. The episode concludes with an announcement of an upcoming repository for AI-enhanced teaching activities and a call for educators across disciplines to share their innovative approaches. Key Takeaways:GPT Tasks enables automated, scheduled AI interactions - from news summaries to daily content deliveryGemini's new fact-checking feature provides source verification but requires careful evaluation of source credibilityDeepseek, the new AI model, is worth checking out but be aware of privacy concernsThe challenge of "transactional education" requires rethinking traditional assessment methodsPractical alternatives to points-based grading include focusing on mastery and reducing assignment volumeFaculty across disciplines are invited to contribute to a new repository of AI-enhanced teaching activities Outline GPT Tasks and Functionalities AI agents conducting various tasks.Use case: AI travel planner and email agent.Development of GPT tasks to run scheduled prompts.Example uses:Receiving AI and higher ed news updates.Daily dad joke feature. Exploration of New AI Tools Importance of experimenting with AI tools for learning.Application play and psychological basis for learning technology.Encouragement to try new tools without overcomplicating the process. Comparison of Search Tools Comparing ChatGPT with Google alerts.Tailoring information relevance and accuracy.Importance of validating AI-generated information. Privacy and Availability of AI Tools Availability limited to certain user levels and regions.Variability in tool features across different platforms. DeepSEEK: A New AI Model Introduction and capability of DeepSEEK.Cost efficiency and openness as an open-source model.Privacy concerns related to data sharing and Chinese government access.Impact on NVIDIA stock and benchmarks comparison. Open Source and Computational Needs Role of open source in future AI model development.Computational requirements and challenges with local running versions. Privacy and Intellectual Property Concerns Distinction between privacy and intellectual property.Concerns about research data compliance and institutional rules. Writing with AI Tools Differentiating writing and editing.Using AI to enhance rather than replace human creativity.Increase in writing quality in published...

    52 min

  6. JAN 6

    Is AI the Future of Learning or the Death of Education?

    AI hallucinations, or confabulations, can actually foster scientific innovation by generating a wealth of ideas, even if many of them are incorrect. Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler explore how AI's ability to rapidly process information allows researchers to brainstorm and ideate more effectively, ultimately leading to significant breakthroughs in various fields. They discuss the need for a shift in how we train scientists, emphasizing critical thinking and the ability to assess AI-generated content. The conversation also touches on the potential risks of AI in education, including the challenge of maintaining student engagement and the fear of students using AI to cheat. As they dive into the latest tools like Google's Gemini and NotebookLM, the hosts highlight the importance of adapting teaching methods to leverage AI's capabilities while ensuring students develop essential skills to thrive in an AI-augmented world. The latest podcast episode features an engaging discussion between Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler about the impact of AI on innovation and education. They dive into the concept of AI hallucinations and confabulations, noting that while these outputs may be inaccurate, they can spark creative thinking and lead to valuable scientific breakthroughs. Crossler emphasizes that trained scientists can sift through these AI-generated ideas, helping to separate the wheat from the chaff. This perspective reframes the way we view AI's role in generating new knowledge and highlights the importance of human expertise in guiding this process. As the dialogue progresses, the hosts address the implications of AI on educational practices. They express concern about the reliance on self-directed learning, noting that many students struggle to engage deeply without structured support. Van Slyke and Crossler advocate for a reimagined educational framework that incorporates AI tools, encouraging educators to foster critical thinking and analytical skills. By challenging students to interact with AI outputs actively, such as critiquing AI-generated reports or creating quizzes based on their work, instructors can ensure that learning is meaningful and substantive. The episode also explores practical applications of AI tools like Google’s Gemini and NotebookLM for enhancing educational experiences. They discuss how these tools can facilitate research and content creation, making it easier for students to engage with complex topics. However, they also acknowledge the potential for misuse, such as cheating. The hosts argue that by redesigning assignments to focus on critical engagement with AI-generated content, educators can mitigate these risks while enriching the learning process. In summary, the episode provides a thought-provoking examination of how AI can both challenge and enhance the educational landscape, urging educators to adapt their approaches to prepare students for a future where AI is an integral part of knowledge acquisition. Takeaways: AI hallucinations, referred to as confabulations, can stimulate scientific innovation by generating diverse ideas. The rapid consumption of information by AI accelerates connections that human scientists might miss. Future scientists must adapt their training to critically assess AI-generated confabulations for practical use. Education needs to evolve to help students engage with AI as a tool for learning. Using AI tools in the classroom can enhance critical thinking skills and analytical abilities. Collaboration among educators is essential to share effective strategies for utilizing AI technologies. Links 1. New York Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/23/science/ai-hallucinations-science.html 2. Poe.com voice...

    41 min

  7. 12/02/2024

    Navigating the AI Landscape: Essential Tools for Higher Education Professionals

    This episode of AI Goes to College discuss the practical applications of generative AI tools in academic research, focusing on how they can enhance the research process for higher education professionals. Hosts Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crossler discuss three key tools: Connected Papers, Research Rabbit, and Scite_, highlighting their functionalities and the importance of transparency in their use. They emphasize the need for human oversight in research, cautioning against over-reliance on AI-generated content, as it may lack the critical thought necessary for rigorous academic work. The conversation also touches on the emerging tool NotebookLM, which allows users to query research articles and create study guides, while raising ethical concerns about data usage and bias in AI outputs. Ultimately, Craig and Rob encourage listeners to explore these tools thoughtfully and integrate them into their research practices while maintaining a critical perspective on the information they generate. --- The integration of generative AI tools into academic research is an evolving topic that Craig and Rob approach with both enthusiasm and caution. Their conversation centers around a recent Brown Bag series at Washington State University, where Rob's doctoral students showcased innovative AI tools designed to assist in academic research. The discussion focuses on three tools in particular: Connected Papers, Research Rabbit, and Scite_. Connected Papers stands out for its transparency, utilizing data from Semantic Scholar to create a visual map of related research, which aids users in finding relevant literature. This tool allows researchers to gauge the interconnectedness of papers and prioritize their reading based on citation frequency and relevance. In contrast, Research Rabbit's lack of clarity regarding its data sources and the meaning of its visual representations raises significant concerns about its reliability. Rob's critical assessment of Research Rabbit serves as a cautionary tale for researchers who might be tempted to rely solely on AI for literature discovery. He argues that while tools like Research Rabbit can provide useful starting points, they often fall short of the rigorous standards required for academic research. The hosts also discuss Cite, which generates literature reviews based on user input. Although Cite can save time for researchers, both Craig and Rob emphasize the necessity of critical engagement with the content, warning against over-reliance on AI-generated summaries that may lack depth and nuance. Throughout the episode, the overarching message is clear: while generative AI can enhance research efficiency, it cannot replace the need for critical thinking and human discernment in the research process. Craig and Rob encourage their listeners to embrace these tools as aides rather than crutches, fostering a mindset of skepticism and inquiry. They underscore the importance of maintaining academic integrity in the face of rapidly advancing technology, reminding researchers that their insights and interpretations are invaluable in shaping the future of scholarship. By the end of the episode, listeners are equipped with practical advice on how to navigate the intersection of AI and research, ensuring that they harness the power of these tools responsibly and effectively. Takeaways: Generative AI tools can help streamline academic research but should not replace critical thinking. Connected Papers offers transparency in sourcing research papers, unlike some other tools. Students must remain skeptical of AI outputs, ensuring they apply critical thought in research. Tools like NotebookLM can assist in summarizing and querying research articles effectively. Using AI can eliminate busy work, allowing researchers to focus on adding unique insights. Educators need to guide students on how to leverage AI tools...

    40 min

  8. 11/18/2024

    AI detectors, amazing slides with Beautiful AI and Gemini as an AI gateway

    Generative AI is reshaping the landscape of higher education, but the introduction of AI detectors has raised significant concerns among educators. Craig Van Slyke and Robert E. Crosler delve into the limitations and biases of these tools, arguing they can unfairly penalize innocent students, particularly non-native English speakers. With evidence from their own experiences, they assert that relying solely on AI detection tools is misguided and encourages educators to focus more on the quality of student work rather than the potential use of generative AI. The conversation also highlights the need for context and understanding in assignment design, suggesting that assignments should be tailored to class discussions to ensure students engage meaningfully with the material. As generative AI tools become increasingly integrated into everyday writing aids like Grammarly, the lines blur between acceptable assistance and academic dishonesty, making it crucial for educators to adapt their approaches to assessment and feedback. In addition to discussing the challenges posed by AI detectors, the hosts introduce Beautiful AI, a powerful slide deck creation tool that leverages generative AI to produce visually stunning presentations. Craig shares his experiences with Beautiful AI, noting its ability to generate compelling slides that enhance the quality of presentations without requiring extensive editing. This tool represents a shift in how educators can approach presentations, allowing for a more design-focused experience that can save significant time. The episode encourages educators to explore such tools that can streamline their workflows and improve the quality of their output, ultimately promoting a more effective use of technology in educational settings. The discussion culminates with a call for educators to embrace generative AI not as a threat but as a resource that can enhance learning and teaching practices. Takeaways: AI detectors are currently unreliable and can unfairly penalize innocent students. It's essential to critically evaluate their results rather than accept them blindly. The biases in AI detectors often target non-native English speakers, leading to unfair accusations of cheating. Generative AI tools can enhance the quality of writing and presentations, making them more visually appealing and easier to create. Beautiful AI can generate visually stunning slide decks quickly, saving time while maintaining quality. Using tools like Gemini can significantly streamline the process of finding accurate information online, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional searches. Educators should contextualize assignments to encourage originality and understanding, rather than relying solely on AI detection tools. Links referenced in this episode: gemini.google.combeautiful.ai Companies mentioned in this episode: Grammarly Shutterstock Beautiful AI Google Wright State University WSU Gemini Mentioned in this episode: AI Goes to College Newsletter

    29 min
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About

Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has taken higher education by storm. Higher ed professionals need to find ways to understand and stay up with developments in GAI. AI Goes to College helps higher ed professionals learn about the latest developments in GAI, how these might affect higher ed, and what they can do in response. Each episode offers insights about how to leverage GAI, and about the promise and perils of recent advances. The hosts, Dr. Craig Van Slyke and Dr. Robert E. Crossler are an experts in the adoption and use of GAI and understanding its impacts on various fields, including higher ed.

Information

  • Creator
    Craig Van Slyke
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    AI Goes to College

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