Generative AI tools like ChatGPT have emerged as transformative forces in community college education, requiring thoughtful integration to enhance student learning while maintaining academic integrity.
Objective: To examine how generative AI is impacting community college education and highlight effective strategies for faculty to incorporate these tools into teaching and learning.
Methods: Analysis of AI implementation in community colleges through case studies, faculty interviews, and examination of institutional policies and practices.
Key Findings:
- Traditional AI detection tools proved unreliable, leading institutions to focus on teaching proper AI use rather than prevention
- Faculty are successfully integrating AI into curriculum through authentic assessments and process-focused assignments
- Instructional AI shows promise for providing personalized learning and feedback
- AI tools can help address equity gaps by providing consistent, accessible academic support
- Community colleges face unique challenges in AI adoption due to resource limitations
Implications:
- Academic integrity policies need updating to account for AI use
- Curriculum design should evolve to emphasize process over final product
- AI adoption should prioritize student success and equity
- Faculty need support and training to effectively integrate AI tools
- Community colleges must prepare students for an AI-driven workforce
Limitations:
- Rapidly evolving technology landscape makes long-term planning difficult
- Resource constraints at community colleges may limit AI implementation
- Concerns about equitable access to AI tools and technology
- Potential barriers for non-native English speakers
Future Directions:
- Development of more effective AI-integrated pedagogical approaches
- Research on AI's impact on student learning outcomes
- Creation of comprehensive institutional AI policies
- Investigation of AI's role in closing equity gaps
- Exploration of AI applications across different disciplines
Title and Authors: "New Technology for a New World: How AI is Creating Opportunities for Students and Faculty" by Kelsey Behringer and Devyn Maguire
Published On: 2024
Published By: New Directions for Community Colleges (Wiley Periodicals LLC)