Arizona State University (ASU) has partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its classrooms.
ASU plans to use ChatGPT Enterprise in three key areas: improving student success, fostering innovative research, and streamlining organizational processes. The university will begin accepting project proposals from faculty and students in February.
Some professors are already using generative AI in their classes, such as composition classes to improve writing and journalism classes to create multimedia stories. Faculty members with AI expertise will help guide the use of generative AI on campus.
"ASU recognizes that augmented and artificial intelligence systems are here to stay, and we are optimistic about their ability to become incredible tools that help students to learn, learn more quickly and understand subjects more thoroughly," ASU President Michael M. Crow said. "Our collaboration with OpenAI reflects our philosophy and our commitment to participating directly to the responsible evolution of AI learning technologies."
Anne Jones, ASU's vice provost for undergraduate education, suggests that chatbots could potentially serve as personalized tutors for students.
Both Jones and Kyle Bowen, ASU's associate chief information officer, believe that universities can serve as live testing grounds for various generative AI use cases, fostering critical thinking and determining the technology's role in education.
This partnership marks the first collaboration between OpenAI and an educational institution.
"Learning is core to why so many users love ChatGPT. ASU continues to lead in innovation by integrating ChatGPT into its educational programs," OpenAI Chief Operating Officer Brad Lightcap said. "We’re keen to learn from ASU and to work towards expanding ChatGPT's impact in higher education."