Several AI stories/resources are coming in at the same time, so I’ve packaged them together to save some time and inbox space.
First, Ethan Mollick, a professor at Wharton and a leading voice on AI in higher education was a recent guest on the Ezra Klein show. I can’t make you read or listen to anything about AI (or anything else for that matter), but if I could this would be the thing. During a 2nd half conversation about writing (which they later expanded to many other areas of student work) Mollick remarks “any writer knows about the tyranny of the blank page, about staring at a blank page and not knowing what to do next, and the struggle of filling that up. And when you have a button that produces really good words for you, on demand, you’re just going to do that.” The situation is not hopeless, but it does require some attention. Invest some time in this episode and you will be closer to solutions than where you are now.
Second, we are hosting an informal AI conversation on 4/19 via Zoom. This is a great opportunity to talk about what is going on in the classroom, in your own work, and discuss ethics and possibilities. Nik Janos and I started these conversations last year and we have found they work best when we come with a supportive attitude and intentionally to avoid disparaging our colleagues, students, or administrators by keeping the conversation focused on the technology and our perspectives. This is not a policy-making or agenda-driven space. All employees are welcome to attend and participate.
Third, applications for our summer programs are due on 4/19. We have an AI retrofit intensive and the popular writing intensive. Apply for one or both. We would love to see you and work with you this summer.
Zach Justus
Director of Faculty Development
Professor of Communication Arts and Sciences
Google Voice/Text: 530-487-4150
