Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed various sectors, including higher education. As we gear up for the new academic year, it's essential for college students to develop AI literacy to stay competitive and make the most out of their learning experiences. Dr. Jean Mandernach, Executive Director of the Center for Innovation in Research and Teaching at Grand Canyon University, shares her insights on what students need to know to be AI-ready.

Here are four crucial tips:

1. Understand The Role Of AI In Education

AI is more than just a buzzword; it has become a significant tool in education, capable of enhancing both teaching and learning processes. Within two years of its inception, AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot have revolutionized how information is accessed and processed. Dr. Mandernach emphasizes the potential of AI not just to make traditional tasks more efficient but to unlock new possibilities in education.

AI tools can assist in providing quick feedback, generating content, and personalizing learning experiences. For instance, AI can tailor questions and materials to suit individual learning paces and styles, providing a more customized educational experience. However, students must realize that while AI can accelerate these processes, it cannot replace the intellectual effort required to grasp core concepts.

Actionable Tip: Begin by familiarizing yourself with popular AI tools and experimenting with their functionalities to enhance your study habits.

2. Develop Critical Thinking & Verification Skills

AI can generate vast amounts of information quickly, but it is crucial to verify the accuracy of this information. AI tools may sometimes produce incorrect or biased data, a phenomenon known as "hallucination." Dr. Mandernach advises students to critically evaluate the outputs provided by AI and cross-check them with reliable sources.

Developing these skills ensures that students are not merely consumers of AI-generated content but are also critical evaluators who can discern fact from fiction. This is particularly important in academic settings where the credibility of information is paramount.

Actionable Tip: When using AI to assist with assignments or research, always cross-reference the AI outputs with reputable academic sources to ensure accuracy.

3. Ethical & Responsible Use Of AI

Understanding the ethical implications of AI use is essential. Students should be aware of issues such as data privacy, intellectual property rights, and the potential biases inherent in AI systems. Dr. Mandernach stresses the importance of using AI tools ethically and responsibly to avoid academic misconduct and uphold integrity.

Employers increasingly expect graduates to be proficient in AI, but also to use it responsibly. As such, students should learn how to balance AI use with their own intellectual efforts, ensuring that AI complements rather than replaces their work.

Actionable Tip: Familiarize yourself with your institution's policies on AI use and always disclose when and how you use AI in your assignments to maintain transparency and integrity.

4. Leverage AI For Personalized Learning & Skill Development

AI offers personalized learning experiences that can cater to individual needs, making it a powerful tool for skill development. AI can help students identify their strengths and weaknesses, tailor study plans, and provide resources that match their learning style. This adaptability can lead to more effective and efficient learning.

Dr. Mandernach encourages students to use AI as a study aid, not just for completing assignments but also for self-assessment and skill enhancement. By leveraging AI in this manner, students can take control of their learning journey and achieve better outcomes.

Actionable Tip: Use AI tools to create personalized study schedules, practice quizzes, and feedback sessions to enhance your understanding of the course material.

Looking for more content to prepare students to be AI ready? Check out Innovative Educators micro-credential AI Literacy Essentials For Students: A Micro-Credential For Maximum Impact. And, learn more from Dr. Jean Mandernach in her recent presentation Are Your Students AI Ready For Fall? Essential AI Literacy Tools For Academic Integrity & Success.

For 20 years, Innovative Educators has assisted college leaders to build foundations of success for their students. Institutions have seen student engagement and retention increase significantly as a result of utilizing Go2Orientation, OnlineLingo and StudentLingo to onboard new students. Grounded in best practices for online learning, Innovative Educators student support tools are engaging, interactive, and community-building. Go2Orientation, OnlineLingo and StudentLingo together create a powerful online resource center providing comprehensive support to students throughout their academic journey. You can trust in the effectiveness of our resources to support your students' success.

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By Meg Foster, Online Learning & Design Specialist - Consultant & Wendy Archer,  Web Content Coordinator 
July 9, 2024