Generative Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Literacy and Inclusion
06 January 2025
Rector Liviu-George Maha, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași
Nicoleta Laura Popa, Chair of the Coimbra Group Education Innovation Working Group, Vice-Rector for international relations and academic and research partnerships, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași
Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, in close cooperation with the Coimbra Group Executive Board and the Education Innovation Working Group, organised and hosted the sixth High-Level Seminar on Education Policy on the theme (Generative) Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education (21-22 November 2024). The event brought together the Rectors and Vice-Rectors of the Coimbra Group, as well as members of the Education Innovation Working Group, students and industry representatives. It engaged the audience in timely and intense discussions on the topic, given the growing concern and emphasis around artificial intelligence at the European policy level, but also at the institutional level.
The two-day programme included presentations on opportunities and challenges, institutional policies and practices in the adoption of generative artificial intelligence in higher education, a hands-on workshop on integrating it in teaching and learning, and a session introducing the results of an exploratory survey conducted among Coimbra Group Universities by the members of the Education Innovation Working Group. Students from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, invited to give voice to their concerns on the use and misuse of ChatGPT, debated with the audience on associated ethical considerations, including equity and inclusion, and also emphasized AI literacy needs.
The rich and inspiring exchanges were mirrored in the conclusions, acknowledging the key role Universities may play in unlocking the transformative potential of generative artificial intelligence in shaping the future, and the need for a strong strategic, interdisciplinary, responsible and responsive approach. The collegial climate of sharing and collaboration, a landmark of the Coimbra Group, was visible throughout the event hosted by Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, and ensures future similar exchanges in designing strategic plans and actions to respond to the rapid progress of generative artificial intelligence, and its broader societal impact.