Webinar Recap: AI and Academic Excellence
By Kasia Figiel, Sage Research Methods Community Manager
Watch the recent, thought-provoking webinar focusing on the integration of generative AI tools within academic settings. The engaging guest speakers, Dr Leo Lo and Dr Tom Chatfield, delved into the significance of AI literacy for researchers, educators and students, as well as discussing best practices and ethical considerations.
The webinar, hosted by Sage, offered valuable insights into practical applications of AI, such as brainstorming and generating diverse research ideas. Dr. Leo Lo also discussed AI's potential to act as a writing coach, helping refine our work while preserving our unique voices. He highlighted the importance of detailed and context-rich prompts to optimize interactions with AI systems. Furthermore, he stressed that critical thinking and verification of AI outputs are essential, ensuring the accuracy of information.
Ethics were at the forefront of the discussion, advocating for transparency and inclusivity in AI use. The speakers called for the development of ethical practices to ensure AI tools are accessible to all students.
The webinar underscored the transformative potential of generative AI in academia, urging us to embrace AI literacy and ethical use as we navigate this evolving landscape.
Dr Leo Lo is the Dean and Professor of the College of University Libraries & Learning Sciences at the University of New Mexico. His work focuses on advancing AI literacy and developing training programs for library and higher education professionals. As President of the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL), Dr. Lo established a national task force to create a set of essential AI competencies for library workers, and created an AI Discussion Group. Leo has developed a fantastic new course for Sage Campus on leveraging AI for academic excellence, as well as a freely available course on the Art of ChatGPT interactions.
Dr Tom Chatfield is an author and tech philosopher. He’s interested in improving our experiences and understanding of technology, with a particular focus on critical thinking, AI and ethics. His bestselling critical thinking textbooks and online courses, developed in partnership with Sage, are used by companies, institutions and universities across the world. Tom is also the author of Sage’s new White Paper on Human Skills for an AI age - how today's business schools can develop tomorrow's leaders, which will be published in early April.