Help Shape the Future of Education: Share Your Thoughts on University’s Proposed AI Guidelines for Teaching and Learning!

The University has introduced a framework called the Responsible Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Tools for Teaching and Learning and is seeking online feedback. But don’t wait too long—submissions received before July 31 will get priority.

Announced on May 6, this initiative offers guidelines for professors and students on how to use AI effectively and responsibly in educational settings. A dedicated working group crafted these guidelines after six months of thorough research and discussions with AI experts and faculty.

Kasey Ford, an AI designer at the Office of Academic Technology, shared the aim behind this framework. “We want to create principles to guide people as they evaluate AI tools for teaching,” she said. “Ultimately, we hope to provide resources that help solve specific problems while adhering to responsible practices.”

The framework includes eight key principles, like intention and stewardship. One principle that struck a chord with the AI working group was the importance of relationships. Ford emphasized, “Often, discussions around data governance and AI focus too much on the technical aspects, neglecting the social relationships between peers, faculty, and the broader campus community.”

Many professors support these guidelines, believing they provide useful direction. Peter Stone, director of Texas Robotics, remarked, “It’s great that the University is clearly outlining responsible AI usage. There’s still confusion on both sides—faculty and students—about how to integrate these tools well into teaching.”

Sharon Strover, a journalism professor involved in writing the guidelines, has plans to incorporate examples of AI that students might encounter in their studies. “Having practical examples would be beneficial. We could create a pooled resource where educators share how they’re using AI, along with the strengths and weaknesses of those approaches,” Strover suggested.

Although the July 31 deadline is for prioritizing comments for fall updates, the University will continue to welcome feedback every six months to enhance the framework. Ford noted, “We recognize that the relationship between AI and education is changing rapidly. Initially, we focused on generative AI, but we’re expanding our scope to include all types of AI technologies as innovations continue.”

Recent figures show that a significant number of institutions are adopting AI technologies. According to a recent survey by Educause, 61% of educational institutions are exploring the use of some form of AI technology, underscoring the need for guidelines like these.

In this evolving landscape, having a well-structured framework can not only help educators navigate the complexities of AI but also enrich the learning experience for students. As technology continues to develop, the emphasis on responsible AI use will likely remain a hot topic in education.

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