Speaker

Vistasp M. Karbhari, University of Texas at Arlington

Abstract

The recent rise of ChatGPT and other generative artificial intelligence tools has catalyzed growing anxiety on college campuses while fueling a national conversation related to cheating and academic integrity (or lack thereof) and loss in critical thinking abilities, as well as rising concerns about the loss of jobs and replacement of faculty by AI platforms. But this narrative is potentially overshadowing the technology’s true potential. Because of its ability to deliver at scale while simultaneously enabling personalization, GenAI has the potential to revolutionize access and equity of opportunity. Considerations such as personalized learning and tutoring, engagement platforms, language assistance, contextual learning, immersive exposure, holistic and special needs support, course curation and updating, realistic and meaningful assessment, and analytics, among others can help in moving from an extremely constrained, one-size-fits-all, assembly-line system to one that is personalized, focuses on learning and competencies rather than time in seat, enhances critical thinking and synthesis skills, and provides greater opportunities to learn by doing through simulation and immersion. These tools could also transform operations on campuses, both physical and phygital, enabling greater focus on the mission of learning and creation of knowledge. While GenAI has significant potential to positively transform higher education, it is not without its complexities, including concerns related to bias, inequities, false information, privacy and security, IP, compliance, faculty support, and even depersonalization of learning, among others. These and other concerns should not be approached with irrational fear or be used as a reason for inaction but should serve as catalysts for thoughtful scrutiny and action, rigorous discussion, and mindful assessment. This talk will focus on perceptions and implications – balancing the potential with realities and concerns, as well as defining a path forward, emphasizing that just as with other technology, the power of control rests with us and we, as a community, must drive it in the appropriate direction, placing safeguards through design and policy, and creating feedback loops for improvement.

Bio

Vistasp M. Karbhari is a Professor in the Departments of Civil Engineering, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he served as the 8th president from 2013 to 2020. He is passionate about the mission of HigherEd in enhancing access, opportunity, value & excellence through a knowledge enterprise developed to meets the needs of learners, defined broadly, in the 21st century. An internationally reputed researcher he has authored/coauthored over 500 publications and edited/co-edited 8 books. He is a fellow of numerous professional organizations including the AAAS and NAI, is an elected member of the European Academy of Science and Arts, and was named a Fellow of Complete College America (CCA) for his work of access and attainment.