Title: West Virginia University Researchers Engage Liberal Arts Faculty in AI Conversations
In a groundbreaking initiative, two West Virginia University researchers are inviting liberal arts faculty to explore the multifaceted dimensions of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications in education. With a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, Erin Brock Carlson, assistant professor of English, and Scott Davidson, professor of philosophy, are developing a curriculum designed to stimulate discussions around the social, ethical, and technical aspects of AI in classrooms.
The project aims to challenge the common misconception that discussions about AI technology reside solely within STEM fields. Carlson emphasizes the importance of the humanities in these conversations: “The humanities gets overlooked and underappreciated so often. We are doing important, meaningful research, just like our colleagues in STEM and other fields.” This perspective mirrors the biblical principle of community and collaboration—encouraging diverse voices to contribute to the understanding of complex issues.
This summer, Carlson and Davidson will host a workshop where they will provide AI training for humanities faculty and assist them in creating courses that incorporate AI. The goal is not only to ensure these courses are implemented effectively but also to create a space where critical examination of AI’s benefits and drawbacks can flourish. The researchers recognize that AI encompasses various technologies that can shape the personal, social, and economic fabric of society.
Davidson recalls a pivotal moment that sparked his interest in this area, when he encountered an AI-generated summary of one of his own articles that was completely inaccurate. “That really highlighted that we need to build an understanding in students of the need to inquire deeper and to understand that you have to be able to evaluate AI’s accuracy and its reliability,” he explained. In essence, this reflects the biblical principle of seeking wisdom (Proverbs 4:7): “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
Carlson and Davidson’s initiative isn’t just about creating a curriculum; it’s about fostering an environment that encourages critical discourse and facilitates interdepartmental communication. As they prepare to redesign ten courses and invite outside experts, they emphasize the importance of ethical conversations surrounding AI. This aligns with the Christian call for stewardship—taking responsibility for the impact of our technological advances on God’s creation and our communities.
While many engage in polarized views on AI—from blind optimism to extreme skepticism—the researchers aim to bring a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the potential and pitfalls of AI. They highlight concerns such as the environmental impact of data centers and the ethical implications of AI’s influence on personal and familial relationships.
As these conversations expand, Carlson and Davidson are cultivating a community of inquiry that not only addresses technological advancements but also seeks to uphold moral values. The call to engage in meaningful dialogue and ethical considerations resonates with Jesus’ teaching about loving one another and honoring the dignity of every person.
As West Virginia University leads this interdisciplinary charge, one must consider how these discussions could reflect our values as individuals and a society. Like Carlson suggested, fostering conversations on AI through a humanistic lens can pave the way for greater understanding and collaboration across all fields.
In this era of rapid technological change, it’s vital to remember that the pursuit of knowledge must be balanced with discernment and ethical considerations. As Proverbs 18:15 teaches us, “The mind of the prudent acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.”
The work of Carlson and Davidson encourages us to reflect on our responsibilities as stewards of knowledge and technology. What role will you play in shaping the conversations around AI in your community? How can we align our advancements with the values that promote human dignity, understanding, and love? Let this initiative inspire us to foster discussions that uplift, educate, and honor the intrinsic worth of each person—reflecting the heart of a caring Creator.
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