A focus on AI
Boston College Information Technology Services and campus partners are making significant strides to foster discussions about generative artificial intelligence (AI), including its capabilities and safe practices in academia.
ITS has launched a new website [www.bc.edu/genai] that aims to explore generative AI through the lens of Jesuit education, being attentive to the wide-reaching possibilities while also reflecting on the societal challenges of this transformative technology.
Scott Cann
Generative AI, as defined by the new website, is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, whether writing a story, composing music, or generating images. Gen AI tools create new content based on users’ questions or requests, using a “prompt.” Features of the new site, designed by BC’s Office of University Communications, includes data-protected AI tools licensed by BC for students, faculty, and staff; training and introduction courses available via Canvas; guidelines to support the community’s safety; and prompting tips and general research on the future of AI.
To further explore AI’s capabilities in academia, Information Technology Services and the Office of the Provost will host a faculty and staff conference, “BC Talks AI: Innovate with Integrity,” on May 14 in Gasson Hall. The conference will feature lessons on general applications, AI in research, and teaching, and learning workshops.
“This new website is the result of a collaborative partnership with faculty, students, and staff, with the goal of creating a shared space that promotes both learning and the responsible exploration of AI,” said Associate Vice President of IT Systems and Services Scott Cann, a part-time Woods College of Advancing Studies faculty member.
“The upcoming conference is an extension of this effort, designed to foster dialogue about AI at BC. It will include talks and workshops that will cover AI’s applications in research, teaching, learning, and various other disciplines. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of this important effort and to work alongside faculty, students, and staff in advancing this conversation.”
To submit a proposal or register for the conference, go to the Generative AI@BC site.