As generative AI like ChatGPT gains traction in higher education, academic technologist Rob Nelson advises against rushing implementation. He emphasizes small-scale experimentation and collaboration between technologists and educators to harness AI effectively. Nelson, a former executive director at the University of Pennsylvania, contends that generative AI, while a digital tool, offers unique capabilities that merit an incremental approach to integration.
For instance, Babson College’s The Generator fosters AI innovation through faculty-technologist partnerships and dedicated labs. In contrast, a large contract by California State University lacked sufficient guidance, leading to ineffective AI adoption. Nelson’s experiences showcase the need for instructional designers to bridge pedagogical and technological gaps.
Ultimately, time, not technology, is the main barrier to AI integration. Educators should be encouraged to experiment with AI in manageable projects, turning curiosity into learning opportunities rather than feeling overwhelmed. This exploratory approach can unveil AI’s potential in education.
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