The University of Chicago Law School released an AI strategy statement Thursday that explains how artificial intelligence will be integrated into its curriculum.
The statement includes a “strategic vision” with three themes. These are “developing AI-proof pedagogy and assessment,” “improving the ‘inherent human’ skills that identify great lawyers,” and “teaching the responsible, effective, and ethical use of AI.” This document is the latest example of how universities, no matter their approach to AI, cannot ignore the power and impact of technology.
The document states: “Rather than banning AI or attempting to ignore its risks to learning, our pedagogy and assessment should be designed to ensure that students learn how to think critically and solve legal problems based on sound professional judgment.”
Additionally, many in the legal profession will “remain in the human realm,” he said, often because that’s what people want. These tasks are thought to include “verbal advocacy, strategic judgment, critical thinking, and building and maintaining relationships with clients and stakeholders.”
Regarding the classroom, the document states: “It is completely unrealistic to expect that students and lawyers will not use AI. However, legal technology is changing rapidly, and there is no guarantee that any particular AI tool or technology that is currently dominant will help today’s students when they enter the practice. Therefore, training in AI skills requires more than preparing students to use the tools that are currently part of legal practice.”
