How University Leaders Can Ethically and Responsibly Implement AI
Getting to a final version of a policy is an iterative process, and keeping the stakeholders engaged and providing feedback remains important at this stage. The final policy should strive to balance addressing potential risks with enabling innovation and experimentation without being overly prescriptive by using a risk-based approach.
Implementing Policies and Programs with Strong Processes and Responsibility
A well-defined policy is only the first step. Effective implementation requires clear processes, governance structures, and training programs. Institutions must designate responsible parties for overseeing AI initiatives and establish a structured rollout plan that includes:
- A Defined Implementation Timeline: Institutions should determine when policies take effect, considering whether a phased approach is appropriate.
- Clear Communication Strategies: Messaging should be consistent, transparent, and tailored to different campus audiences. It's important to also consider the frequency of those messages.
- Comprehensive Training Plans: Faculty, staff, and students must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to use AI tools effectively and responsibly. This ensures that the AI tools an institution leverages are being used to their fullest potential, in the right way. Institutions can leverage existing training tools and processes, leverage third-party provided content and develop training internally as they see fit.
- Ongoing Monitoring & Compliance: Institutions need mechanisms to track AI adoption, address noncompliance, and refine policies as AI technology evolves. While this is especially important in the rollout phase, it should be an ongoing process to monitor AI adoption.
While institutions vary in their approach to AI adoption, not utilizing it strategically risks falling short in meeting the evolving needs of students, faculty, and administrators. Instead, by following key principles, establishing comprehensive policies and programs, and implementing them with clear processes and accountability, institutions can responsibly and ethically harness the benefits of this transformative technology.
About the Author
Bruce Dahlgren is CEO of Anthology.