Artificial Intelligence Courses at VCU Enhance Interdisciplinary Learning
Expanding Horizons in AI Education
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is launching new humanities courses that delve into the ethics and philosophy of artificial intelligence (AI). These courses aim to examine the far-reaching implications and complex ethical questions raised by AI technologies.
Humanists Leading the Way
Dr. Frank Faries and Dr. James Fritz, assistant and associate professors of philosophy respectively, are at the forefront of this initiative. They believe AI is fundamentally rooted in philosophical inquiries, making it essential to grasp its broader impacts. Dr. Faries underscores that building synthetic minds involves philosophical challenges that can’t be overlooked.
Preparing Students for Future Careers
Fotis Sotiropoulos, VCU’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, emphasizes the importance of these courses in preparing students for future careers. As industries evolve, graduates must navigate a world increasingly influenced by AI and other emerging technologies. These courses aim to equip students with the skills needed to excel in such an environment.
New Microcredential: Ethics and Philosophy of AI
The two philosophy classes form a new microcredential digital badge, “Ethics and Philosophy of AI.” This credential aims to develop students’ abilities to critically evaluate topics such as AI transparency, algorithmic bias, and data privacy.
Dean Catherine Ingrassia of VCU’s College of Humanities and Sciences highlights the importance of ethical and critical thinking skills regarding AI. The integration of AI studies across disciplines empowers graduates to tackle the complexities where technology, society, and human values intersect.
Exploring Broader Ethical and Conceptual Challenges
The rapid advancement of AI technologies like ChatGPT has made it crucial to address their ethical, legal, and societal implications. Dr. Donald Smith, chair of the Department of Philosophy, notes that the origins of AI lie not only in mathematics and computer science but also in philosophy.
Additional AI-Focused Courses
VCU’s College of Humanities and Sciences offers several other AI-centric courses:
- The Language of Artificial Intelligence: Offered by the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, this course covers the basic language behind AI algorithms and models.
- Artificial Intelligence in Mass Media: This course examines the impact of AI on the media industry through the Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture.
- Critical AI Studies: Provided by the Department of English, this class analyzes AI technologies and their societal effects.
New AI Minor Program
These courses contribute to VCU’s new minor in artificial intelligence, which complements a minor in mixed and immersive reality studies. This interdisciplinary minor allows students to study with experts from various fields, enhancing their understanding of the applications and ethical concerns related to emerging technologies.
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These new educational initiatives mark a significant step in VCU’s commitment to integrate AI comprehension and ethical awareness into its academic offerings, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.