AI's Growing Role in Colleges: A Double-Edged Sword
Colleges are increasingly turning to AI to handle routine tasks, freeing up staff for more complex work. At Roxbury Community College, a new AI assistant named AskRoxie is set to take over simple queries, from password resets to financial aid questions. This shift is part of a broader trend in New England, where AI is being used for everything from writing content to fighting cyberattacks.
The Shift in Higher Education
The adoption of AI in higher education marks a significant change from the initial skepticism that followed the launch of ChatGPT. While concerns about cheating and critical thinking skills persist, many institutions are now embracing AI to show they can address these issues while also adopting new technology. This has led to a rapid increase in AI-related courses, even at traditional liberal arts schools like Bowdoin College.
Benefits in Administration and Student Life
The biggest benefits of AI in education may lie in administration and student life. AI tools are increasing retention and productivity in areas like marketing, finance, and IT, saving time and money. This is crucial given the financial challenges facing universities, including reduced federal funding and declining enrollment.
Examples of AI Implementation
- Roxbury Community College is using AI to manage the influx of new students from the state's free community college program without hiring additional staff.
- Northeastern University is using AI to streamline the paperwork required for opening new campuses, saving significant staff time.
Challenges and Concerns
However, the use of AI in education is not without its challenges. There are concerns about job displacement and resistance from some faculty members. Despite these concerns, many professors see the benefits of AI, such as Babson College's MathBot, which has reduced tutoring responsibilities for professors and peer tutors.
Cost and Accessibility
Not all colleges are able or willing to adopt AI. The cost of institution-wide licenses for generative AI chatbots can be prohibitive, and some schools may not have the budget. According to a recent survey, only 27 percent of colleges offer school-wide generative AI access.
Growing Investment in AI
Despite these challenges, a growing number of colleges are investing in AI tools. Boston University, for example, launched its own AI chatbot, TerrierGPT, this spring. The use of AI in education is a sign that universities are moving away from the initial panic surrounding the technology and towards a more practical approach.