The HOV Department Tackles the AI Issue Head‑On
Reality overtook the plan when Mats Jong was preparing for HOV's departmental days. The original theme for the days had to yield to the pressing challenge of generative artificial intelligence – AI
"When we first discussed the theme for the departmental days in the management group, the plan was to focus on the post-pandemic theme. We wanted to discuss and reflect on everything we had changed and learned during the pandemic," says Mats Jong, Deputy Head of the Department of Health Sciences, HOV.
"As the departmental days approached, the AI boom was already upon us. In discussions with program managers and study directors, it became clear that our institution has a significant need to figure out how to handle AI in teaching and assessments," says Mats.
The afternoon of the first day and the morning of the second day were dedicated to seminars and workshops on Generative AI, with a focus on opportunities in teaching, pedagogy, and assessments.
Jessica Liivlaid led the seminars with the assistance of Anna Loungeville and Jon Öberg. All participants were instructed to bring their computers and tasks to work on. They learned about various AI tools and had the opportunity to test these tools on their own tasks. They also had time to think about and reflect on how to incorporate AI into their daily work within their respective subjects.
Voices from the Colleagues on AI
"The development with AI is a challenge; it feels uncertain, and my gut feeling raises the question of whether we are progressing or regressing."
"During the pandemic, we've developed our digital competence, and now it feels like we might have to revert to physical exams or oral assessments to safeguard against cheating."
"We can't stop AI, so the question is how we can work with it in a constructive manner."
"A completely new world has opened up; we can find new opportunities in teaching and pedagogy."
"We also discussed the question of what knowledge is. And when it comes to cheating, we never really know how students have managed to provide their answers during assessments. There's no difference now."
Moving Forward
Jessica Liivlaid summarized that we need to test more, talk more, and involve students in the work with these AI tools. Several participants expressed the desire for more time to learn and discuss this with colleagues.
Finally, Jessica encouraged anyone in need of support in discussions about AI strategy and related topics to book educational support via: