Instructors at Southeast University say artificial intelligence is not something to be feared or banned, but rather is taught as a practical tool in the classroom. Ryan Gustafson, applied research coordinator and instructor, said the goal is to use it responsibly and effectively.
“We need to teach students how to use it correctly, how to use it responsibly, and how to use it in a good way,” Gustafson said. “As with many tools, there are effective ways to use them and less effective ways.”
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Gustafsson maintains that artificial intelligence cannot replace student thinking, which is why AI is used in the university’s computer science training through the Projects program to support learning outcomes.
“In our computer science training courses through projects, we use these tools as a way to create prototypes, brainstorm different solutions, and facilitate problem-solving,” he said. “We don’t want to replace that critical thinking, we want to enhance it,” Gustafson said. “Help me see solutions from different angles, encourage thinking, help me think about things I might have overlooked, help me poke holes in my plans.”
He said AI needs to be thought of like other technological tools now in daily use, as fundamental knowledge remains essential.
“This is a tool, and I completely believe that’s how we should use it,” he said.
“I don’t support using AI as a replacement for humans, but rather as a way to augment human capabilities. You need to have a strong understanding of the basic concepts so you can quickly point out when you’re wrong,” Gustafsson said.
Tanya Andrews, executive director of innovation and applied research, said the program is increasing demand for AI-related education in the region as it allows students to adapt to advances in technology.
“We are already recruiting students to receive training in computer science through the Estevan Cohort project starting in September,” Andrews said, adding that the Weyburn Cohort has also begun and is still accepting registrations. “We have a flexible and agile program where students work on projects. If there’s technology available or coming up that students can implement, they can use it in their own projects and learn from it,” Andrews said.
Southeast College values ethics and responsibility, as Mr. Andrews also emphasized opportunities for young learners.
“We’re providing a way for instructors and Ryan to encourage them to learn more about ethics, responsibility, and why and understanding what’s happening when they type out a prompt,” she said. “We’re starting a short eight-week program once a week for third- through ninth-grade students,” Andrews said. “Something is going to happen in Estevan this summer.”
Andrews said the region’s history of innovation supports this approach.
“This innovation and entrepreneurship is widespread,” she said. “In fact, it’s in our values.”
