Dartmouth is embracing artificial intelligence in education through innovative initiatives in the classroom and research. Faculty are integrating AI tools for language learning, environmental studies, and research methodologies, while workshops and grant programs are helping educators adapt to these technologies. The goal is to develop AI literacy among students while addressing the limitations and ethical concerns surrounding AI use.
Dartmouth is immersing itself in the world of artificial intelligence (AI) as faculty explore innovative ways to integrate this technology into classrooms and research. An Environmental Studies class is currently leveraging AI to collect and synthesize information about wind energy, while others are developing AI tutors for languages like Spanish and German, designed to assist students with language skills tailored to chosen content. This initiative embodies Dartmouth’s long-standing tradition of embracing technological advancements.
James “Jed” Dobson, an associate professor, highlights that the efforts echo Dartmouth’s pioneering spirit from the 1960s when the institution prioritized computer literacy to help faculty and students understand computers’ potential. “Generative AI tools are the 21st-century analogue,” Dobson states, emphasizing the need for comprehensive AI education so students can responsibly engage with these technologies in their academic and personal lives.
To promote AI literacy, Dobson is collaborating with Melania Torrey ’28 to incorporate an AI education component into First-Year Seminars for the spring term, ensuring students understand AI’s role in both academia and life beyond college. This initiative aims to enhance their confidence and critical thinking regarding AI technologies.
The release of ChatGPT catalyzed discussions about AI’s transformative potential in teaching, according to Scott Pauls, director of the Dartmouth Center for the Advancement of Learning (DCAL). DCAL provides resources, workshops, and expert guidance to faculty, fostering collaborative opportunities to explore AI’s capabilities while acknowledging its limitations, thereby enabling innovative course development.
Pauls shared that DCAL launched a grant program to support faculty integrating generative AI, offering nine grants of up to $1,500 each for various approaches. This program aims to facilitate resource sharing and enrich courses while ensuring faculty are equipped to navigate the modern educational landscape.
A December workshop, Teaching with GenAI, allowed instructors to understand AI tools hands-on, encouraging a shift in how student learning is evaluated. Erin DeSilva noted that the workshop emphasized the importance of engaging with learning processes, challenging traditional measures by focusing on creativity and productivity.
As a case study, Elizabeth Wilson’s Environmental Problem Analysis class utilizes AI to enhance students’ understanding of the offshore wind sector. They are tasked with updating Wikipedia pages on the subject, using AI tools to navigate the limited available information. Assignments mandate comparative analysis of AI-generated summaries versus student-created ones to foster critical engagement with the tools.
Within the realm of research, Dartmouth’s Polarization Research Lab exemplifies AI’s research potential, using AI models to analyze congressional rhetoric. Simon Stone, a research software engineer, notes that the collaboration among departments is crucial in harnessing AI tools effectively across campus.
AI’s reach extends into healthcare through initiatives like the MoodCapture app, which detects depression in real-time using AI and facial recognition. Additionally, the AI Patient Actor app enhances medical students’ training by simulating patient interactions, showcasing AI’s role in expanding learning methodologies effectively.
Creativity remains a focal point as Dartmouth liberal arts faculty explore AI collaborations to foster innovation in music and other forms. Barbara Will emphasizes Dartmouth’s commitment to leading in educational innovation, noting the institution’s historic ties to AI development. “Infusing AI into our research and teaching is part of our commitment to advancing education and using technology to improve the world around us,” she states, illustrating the proactive embrace of AI across all disciplines at Dartmouth.
Dartmouth is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into education and research, empowering faculty and students to harness technology innovatively. From enhancing language skills with AI tutors to incorporating AI analysis in research projects, the institution illustrates a commitment to evolving teaching methodologies. Amidst the excitement of technological advancements, Dartmouth remains vigilant in addressing challenges, aiming to prepare students for a future where AI plays a critical role in various aspects of life.
Original Source: home.dartmouth.edu
