Since September, a special task force at Notre Dame has been looking at how to bring artificial intelligence (AI) into its curriculum. Led by Professor Nitesh Chawla, a computer science expert, the goal is to enhance research across various subjects and help educators effectively integrate AI into their teaching. This initiative might lead to new courses and degrees to better prepare students for the future.
This effort is part of the 2033 Strategic Framework, which guides the University’s goals for the next decade. The task force, working with ND Learning, plans to compile its findings in a report due in the spring. This report will explore potential courses and programs influenced by AI.
In an interview, Chawla highlighted that AI affects nearly every academic program. The task force focuses on developing new offerings, intentionally steering clear of adjusting existing programs. Co-chairs Professors Patrick Flynn and Michael Hildreth are leading the undergraduate and graduate efforts, respectively.
The undergraduate side will help professors understand how data and AI can impact their courses. This includes possibly making AI learning a requirement in the core curriculum. Instead of resisting AI, educators will learn how to incorporate it while keeping the heart of their subjects intact. Chawla envisions foundational courses that teach AI concepts along with the responsibility that comes with using such technology. After all, even something as simple as a Google search involves AI.
The task force will offer two paths: implementing a university-wide requirement or allowing individual colleges to tailor the requirement to their needs. Chawla believes Notre Dame’s approach is distinctive. While other universities might create specific AI degrees, Notre Dame is focused on integrating AI into various academic contexts.
To gather input, the task force will host town halls for faculty and students. Upcoming gatherings will allow participants to share their thoughts on how AI and data can be woven into the curriculum. Students were asked to provide feedback on possible new courses and whether AI literacy should be a core requirement for all undergraduates.
Expert insights suggest that understanding AI is becoming increasingly essential. According to a recent report from the World Economic Forum, around 85 million jobs may be displaced by a shift in labor between humans and machines by 2025. However, 97 million new roles could emerge that focus on integrating technology into daily tasks, making skills in AI crucial for the job market.
Chawla aims for swift progress, believing both students and faculty need quick adjustments to navigate AI’s influence in education and beyond. After the task force finishes its report, Chawla will discuss its recommendations with the University’s deans to start implementing changes as soon as the next academic year.
This proactive approach may inspire similar initiatives at other institutions, reflecting a broader trend towards integrating technology into education, preparing students for a world where understanding AI is indispensable.
