Notes from today's 'AI is here to stay: Its impact on online, flexible, and distance learning', offered by FLANZ (Flexible Learning Association NZ) in partnership with EdTech NZ and as part of TechWeek here in Aotearoa.
Panellist include Dr. Rebecca Marrone, Dr. Mark McConnell, Shanon O' Connor and Dr. Truman Pham with facilitation from Bettina Schwenger.
Shanon O'Connor from Tōnui Collab starts things off. Shared experiences as to how to provide equitable access to Māori, especially with those who live in rural/isolated areas and those currently affected due to damage to infrastructure from the Cyclone. AI could be useful in providing personalised learning. At the school level, some are finding AI challenging. However, digital inequity is also an important first step as without hardware, capability/ adequate digital literacies, AI tools are not accessible. Cautioned on the use of AI which, due to its underlying epismological sources, can be biased for non-mainstream cultures. Māori digital sovereignty is an important aspect to keep in mind (see work of Dr. Kariatiana Tainui).
Dr. Mark McConnell shared reflections from a 'front-line' university teacher. Background with all all University of Auckland exams are now online, with most being open book and submitted online. The immediate challenge is how to work through students using AI and how to find out if students actually has the knowledge and skills to complete the assessment. Found that Chat GPT scored well on first year assessment questions (multiple choice and short answer for legal questions). Borderline for year 2 questions but failed with complex legal issues and concepts. Case studies, legislations etc etc often made up by ChatGPT!! but seems to have improved over time. Responded by putting all questions into ChatGPT, and reworking questions where required. Discussed the challenges with large numbers of students, to detect AI content and how Ai tools do not always provide opportunities for students to learn essential thinking skills. Shared guidelines (as decision made not to ban Chat GPT): use at your own risk, need to verify accuracy of answers, academic integrity and no expectation to use it. Strategies to use to: include using images, integrate ChatGPT into the question to evaluate what has been produced for authenticity, validity etc.
Dr. Truman Phan from AcademyEX next with discussion on the approach taken with students, to ensure they are attain all aspects of digital, including AI literacies. AI needs to be used with responsibility but also ensure inclusive and equitable for all. Digital divide is very real. As with Shanon's presentation, first steps to ensure digital equity needs to be attained before engagement with AI is possible.
A recording from Dr. Rebecca Marrone from the University of South Australia followed. Provided an example of an adaptive learning platform, which is also mediated with AI. Learning is personalised or differentiated as they move through the platform. Discussed ethical considerations with regards to learning analytics. Presented on opportunities for both learners and lecturers/teachers.
Q & A followed.
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