The Power and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Intersection of Education and AI

In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), it is undeniable that the technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated, capable, and ubiquitous. While some may feel apprehensive about the potential impact of AI on various aspects of life, including education, others are embracing its potential as a powerful tool for enhancing learning and productivity. At the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), the Artificial Intelligence Community of Practice (CoP) is tackling some of the pressing issues surrounding the ethical use and practical applications of AI, with the upcoming AI Spring Symposium. The symposium, scheduled to take place from April 28th to May 2nd, will feature daily sessions open to anyone, both on and off campus. The events will delve into topics such as chatbots, AI in clinical medical practice, and the use of ChatGPT by college students. The organizers aim to create a platform where participants can engage in open and inquisitive discussions about AI, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The AI CoP, co-directed by Lisa Berry and Joe Sabado, seeks to explore the diverse ways in which AI is being used on campus, from education to research and productivity. Berry, who is also the co-director of the Office of Teaching and Learning, emphasizes the importance of gaining insights into how others are handling AI-enhanced education. She notes that the symposium provides an opportunity for participants to engage in scholarly discussions, exploring the curiosities and concerns surrounding AI in education. Key highlights of the symposium include:
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• Exploring the use of AI in clinical medical practice and its implications for healthcare delivery
• Delving into the world of chatbots and their potential applications in education and beyond
• Examining the ways in which students interact with genAI, and the academic research surrounding this topic

* The event is open to participants of all AI expertise levels, and organizers emphasize the importance of inclusivity and welcoming perspectives from faculty, students, and staff. * The symposium is part of a broader initiative to foster collaboration and learning among campus stakeholders, with a focus on aligning AI use with UCSB’s mission and values. Berry and Sabado also aim to create opportunities for participants to connect with one another, both virtually and in-person. This includes social events at the end of each day, providing a space for attendees to engage with one another and share their thoughts and experiences. One of the unique aspects of the symposium is its inclusive nature, welcoming participants who have never used AI tools before, as well as those who actively distrust or dislike AI. Berry emphasizes that the event is a chance for attendees to “get their feet wet” and explore AI in a scholarly and safe environment.

AI CoP Principles	Guiding Principles
1	Welcome every perspective
2	Foster collaboration, learning, and ethical innovation
3	Empower the campus community to explore, implement, and shape AI

For Berry, the symposium serves as a platform for exploring the “what” and “how” of AI-enhanced education, while also examining the “why” and “how” of AI implementation on campus. She notes that the event provides a unique opportunity for participants to engage with one another, sharing their experiences and perspectives on AI use in education. In a

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, Berry emphasizes the importance of creating a community where participants feel comfortable exploring and discussing AI-related topics. “I am naturally drawn to asking questions about what people are already doing on campus with AI, what people are curious about, and how we can enable people to explore those curiosities in a scholarly way,” she said. Sabado also highlights the importance of inclusivity, stating that the event aims to create a space where “folks feel like they can participate” regardless of their AI expertise level or perspective. He notes that the symposium is an “inclusive hub that fosters collaboration, learning, and ethical innovation,” emphasizing the importance of empowering the campus community to explore, implement, and shape AI in alignment with UCSB’s mission and values. In conclusion, the AI Spring Symposium serves as a unique opportunity for the UCSB community to engage with AI-related topics, explore the diverse ways in which AI is being used on campus, and foster a sense of community and collaboration. By welcoming participants of all AI expertise levels and emphasizing inclusivity, the event aims to create a platform for scholarly discussions, exploration, and learning. As Berry and Sabado note, the symposium provides a chance for attendees to “be skeptical and be inquisitive together” about AI, ultimately empowering the campus community to shape the future of AI use in education.