Exploring Tech Opportunities & Challenges: A UNC Asheville Insight

TL/DR –

The University of North Carolina (UNC) is increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its campuses, with the AI Project at the Chapel Hill campus having been in place since 2023. Stephanie O’Brien, a Mass Communication lecturer, is leading the first AI-focused course at UNC Asheville, highlighting the beneficial applications of programs like Sona, Adobe, and Chat GPT in areas like text generation and media editing. However, O’Brien and fellow educational professionals are wrestling with issues of plagiarism and cheating that AI can sometimes facilitate, leading to discussions around potential university-wide AI policies.

UNC Campuses Incorporate AI at Varying Pace

University of North Carolina (UNC) campuses are gradually integrating artificial intelligence (AI) at different rates. The Chapel Hill campus plan was established in 2023, while others like UNC Asheville are just starting.

Stephanie O’Brien, a Mass Communication lecturer, is leading the first AI-focused class in UNC Asheville. “AI is here to stay and will be part of their everyday lives,” she said.

A Pew Research report showed that one-third of young Americans use AI tools like ChatGPT at work, indicating the increasing relevance of AI in future careers.

AI tools like Sona, Adobe, and Chat GPT are foundational in the curriculum, helping students with tasks such as text generation, video editing, and brainstorming. However, the misuse of AI, such as for plagiarism and cheating, is also a concern.

Ed Carroll, the Carolina Cyber Center senior director, warned, “Students might exploit AI to get quick answers, which can hinder their understanding of the subject.”

Consequently, educators like O’Brien establish specific rules for AI usage, particularly for foundational classes where a thorough understanding is critical.

News 13 investigates the use of AI-generated political content, further underscoring the need for responsible AI use.

O’Brien’s participation in the AI task force, which liaises with UNCA officials, hints at the potential introduction of university-wide AI policies in the future.

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