Facing the fact that a majority of Canadian students are utilizing generative AI tools for their academic tasks, more educators are integrating artificial intelligence into their university classes, establishing clear guidelines and promoting responsible usage among students. This shift in approach is prompting instructors to reconsider their teaching methods and evaluation processes, as concerns around academic integrity persist, and decisions regarding AI implementation are often left to individual faculty members.
University professors are now incorporating AI technologies into their curricula and guiding students on how to effectively utilize them to meet educational objectives. For example, Antonello Callimaci, an accounting professor at Université du Québec à Montréal, has developed an AI teaching assistant named Bobby. Bobby assists students by providing prompt responses to queries based on course materials Callimaci has accumulated over the years. Students can access Bobby 24/7 for information and guidance, with Callimaci emphasizing that Bobby is a learning aid and not a substitute for independent work.
In another setting, political science professor Joseph Wong from the University of Toronto has revamped his teaching methods to engage students through generative AI tools. Wong now encourages students to produce three-minute TikTok videos and engage in “reaction dialogues” with AI agents after completing weekly readings. These interactions aim to deepen students’ understanding of course material and enhance critical thinking skills.
Similarly, Sidney Shapiro, an assistant professor at the University of Lethbridge, has utilized AI and machine learning to create interactive and relevant lessons for students. By incorporating generative AI in programming courses, Shapiro encourages students to participate actively in creating unique and creative solutions. He emphasizes the importance of foundational skills such as critical thinking and transparently integrating AI tools into the learning process.
Maggie McDonnell, an instructor at Concordia University, has integrated AI across her courses and collaborates with students to establish AI policies for assignments. She acknowledges that some students may view AI as a shortcut, especially in mandatory courses, but emphasizes the importance of responsible and ethical AI use in career-oriented classes. McDonnell continually reassesses assessment methods and learning objectives to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.
As educators navigate the integration of AI in higher education, the focus remains on promoting responsible and ethical AI usage among students, fostering critical thinking skills, and adapting teaching methodologies to meet changing learning needs.
(Source: CBC)