As artificial intelligence continues to impact classrooms and everyday life, educators at Southern Connecticut State University are asking an important question: How can people use the technology without losing the human skills that matter most?
The university is hosting its fourth conference in a series exploring artificial intelligence on Friday. The event, titled “AI Implications for Ethics and Public Policy,” will bring together faculty, students, educators and community members to examine the benefits, risks and responsibilities associated with the rapidly evolving technology.
Lauren Tucker, an associate professor in SCSU’s Department of Inclusive Education and Behavior Science, said there’s no point of ignoring the technology that has become a part of our everyday life.
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“This tool is valuable, and it is here to stay,” Tucker said. “So, if we don’t address how to actually use it meaningfully, I think it’s a missed opportunity.”
The conference will explore issues ranging from data privacy and bias to the environmental impact of the data centers powering AI systems. Educators will also discuss how the technology could change the way students learn and teachers teach.
David Pettigrew, a professor and chair of SCSU’s philosophy department, said one of his biggest concerns is that relying too heavily on AI could weaken students’ critical thinking and writing skills.
In his classroom, students are not only not allowed to use AI for assignments, but he’s also bringing back some of the traditional ways of learning back into the classroom.
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“One thing I’ve introduced in the class is to have students write essays by hand, using a pen by hand during class time,” Pettigrew said. His goal is to encourage students to develop their written communication and critical thinking skills.
Other professors are taking a different approach.
Tucker is focused on teaching future educators how to incorporate AI into their classrooms while preserving the human connection between teachers and students.
“We’re really trying to meaningfully model how to use it where we can use it appropriately but then be able to bring the human back to teaching,” Tucker said.
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Her conference session will focus on accessibility and how AI can support educators and students. She also wants teachers to consider what they do with the time the technology saves them.
For Tucker, that time could be better spent providing additional support to students.
Peiwen Wang, an assistant professor in SCSU’s Department of Curriculum and Learning, said the conference is intended to help people make informed decisions about whether, when and how to engage with generative AI tools.
“The goal of this conference is really to have everyone come together and brainstorm and have ongoing conversations regarding our shared accountability and responsibility in this age of AI,” Wang said.
While there are several different approaches to using AI in the classroom, the conference aims to encourage conversations about how the technology can be used responsibly without replacing human judgment and connection.
The conference will take place Friday, Oct. 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the School of Business Community Room at Southern Connecticut State University.
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Annette Montgomery is a Multi-Skilled Journalist at FOX61. She can be reached by email at AMontgomery@FOX61.com.
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