New Simon Fraser University courses this fall marks the first in the world. He is a university professor who teaches live performances and stage alongside a completely expressive 3D artificial intelligence collaborator. This pioneering course introduces new models of human interaction in academic settings and places SFU at the forefront of educational innovation.
Developed at the school of Interactive Arts and Technology IVIZ Research Lab, led by Professor Steve DiPaola, the AI named KIA is a high-end, expressive digital persona. With real-time facial expressions, lip syncs and numerous emotional body languages, Kia is designed to be Dipaola's dynamic and intellectual sparring partner in a course that explores the principles, possibilities and ethics of AI technology.
Kia engages in real-time discussions, discuss complex topics, explores questions alongside Dipaola, and creates unique, interactive, thought-inducing student experiences.
“Is a better way to talk about AI ethics better than taking AI into the classroom and teaching it with me? Performance is what I think is involved with students on real issues,” says DiPaola, a renowned researcher with over 25 years of experience in AI, spanning Silicon Valley, Electronic Arts, Stanford and SFU.
“I would like to “personify” AI by bringing in emotional 3D characters that tell this story as students are watching more on social media.
“KIA looks like an enthusiastic bot, but it is created and guided by humans. It is an educational tool, not a substitute for education. KIA's role is to be a conversation partner, not a co-star or teaching assistant, but a subject of research.”
This innovative approach places AI as a learning partner and augments the human-driven educational experience rather than replacing the valuable role of human educators, says Dipaola. It is part of SFU's large, pioneering research project, and understands the future of human cooperation in education.
