The CIC AI Newsletter explores the exciting world of AI tools and keeps faculty informed of happenings.
Holiday Gift to Support Your Professional Growth
This holiday season, we’re celebrating the dedication of our faculty and staff with
an opportunity to enhance your skills and enjoy some exciting rewards.
Faculty and staff who have completed the IBM AI Fundamentals certification, whether you’ve already finished it or complete it by Sunday, January 12, 2025, will be entered into a drawing to win a $100 Amazon gift certificate. There will be two separate drawings: one for faculty and one for staff.
In addition to the drawing, faculty and staff who successfully complete the certification
by the January deadline will receive a $150 incentive. This initiative recognizes your commitment to professional development and the value
you bring to our institution. To claim your incentive, simply submit your certificate
to Amy Calkins.
Registration instructions for the IBM AI Fundamentals course are attached. This program
is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of artificial intelligence and explore
how it can be applied in your work. We look forward to celebrating your success in
2025.
The Fine Line in Teaching AI in Visual Communications
For students in JOUR 346, Graphics for Visual Communications, the semester has been
an exploration of creativity, technology, and tradition. The course, led by Associate
Professor Tara Mortensen in the School of Journalism and Mass, focuses on mastering
the tools and techniques needed to create compelling designs for print and digital
media. But this semester, integrating artificial intelligence added additional challenges.
"Introducing AI into the classroom has been both exciting and challenging," Mortensen
said. "The line is sometimes a bit blurry, especially when it comes to tools for illustration."
One of the course’s core objectives is to teach students how to illustrate and use
illustration tools. While some students experimented with AI for illustrations, the
results underscored the gap between human creativity and machine output. “The illustrations
they generated didn’t align stylistically with the rest of their work. They often
looked like clip art,” she notes. “I’d like to teach them how to craft better prompts,
but for now, I want them to focus on developing their illustration skills first.”
That doesn’t mean AI was sidelined altogether. Dr. Mortensen identified areas where
the technology could serve as a creative aid without overshadowing the fundamentals.
For instance, students were encouraged to use AI-generated photos and typography for
projects like brochures. This allowed them to concentrate on layout and traditional
illustration techniques.
Toward the end of the semester, Mortensen introduced Adobe Photoshop Beta's generative
workspace. This advanced tool allows users to blend AI-generated elements with traditional
design techniques. Students created mashups by combining reference photos with AI-driven
concepts, like portraits rendered in the style of stained glass. From there, they
used Photoshop’s legacy features, such as masking and blending modes, to refine their
work.
"This approach lets students see the potential of AI while still requiring them to
think critically and apply their own skills," Mortensen said. "It's not about letting
AI do the work. It's about guiding it and making the final product your own."
Mortensen's experience underscores the broader challenge in education. How do we integrate
AI in a way that enhances, rather than diminishes, the development of essential skills?
"AI is a fantastic tool, but it can't replace the creativity and critical thinking
that come from hands-on learning," she emphasized. "The goal is to teach students
when and how to use it, so it enhances their work rather than defining it."
As students in JOUR 346 move forward, they carry with them a nuanced understanding
of the evolving design landscape where human skill and AI innovation intersect. Their
journey reflects a lesson that applies far beyond the classroom. Knowing your tools
is essential, but knowing your craft is indispensable.
Exploring Food Stories Through AI Visualization
In a unique blend of culinary storytelling and cutting-edge technology, Associate
Professor Van Kornegay is transforming the way students approach multimedia in JOUR
448, Multimedia for Visual Communications. This team-based course focuses on studio
and location lighting to produce professional-level photography and videos. And now,
Kornegay’s innovative exercise, “We All Have a Food Story,” is taking their creative
process to new heights.
“Food is universal. It connects us to memories, people, and cultures,” Kornegay said.
“I wanted to give students a way to explore those connections while also honing their
skills in pre-visualization and storytelling.”
The exercise starts with students writing a pitch letter about a moment when food
played a pivotal role in their lives, whether it’s a cherished family recipe, a late-night
taco run with friends, or a favorite dish that symbolizes home. Before students start
generating images, they review guidelines for writing effective visual prompts to
better describe and define their visual ideas and generate more appropriate images.
Then, leveraging AI tools like DALL-E and Bing Image Creator, they brainstorm visuals
to complement their stories by focusing on lighting, angle, and background.
“This is about more than just food photography,” Kornegay explained. “It’s about imagining
a narrative and finding the visual language to tell that story effectively.”
For example, one student’s essay about their grandmother’s peach cobbler might inspire
an AI-generated image of a rustic kitchen bathed in warm light, with a cobbler cooling
on the windowsill. Another might focus on the vibrant colors of a childhood love for
cotton candy at the fair.
“It’s a powerful way to pre-visualize a shoot,” Kornegay said. “Next, I hope to take
it further by having students execute the actual shoot.”
The result? Students emerge with a richer understanding of multimedia storytelling
and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the stories food can tell.
Faculty: Earn Your $600 Stipend by January 12
All full-time CIC faculty are invited to participate in the "Teaching with AI" course, a self-paced online program developed by Auburn University's Biggio Center
for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning. This course, offered at no cost, is
designed to help faculty integrate AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot into
their teaching and research practices. Participants who complete the course by Sunday, January 12, 2025, will receive a $600 stipend. To enroll, visit the USC Center for Teaching Excellence. Once you’ve completed the course, be sure to send your certificate of completion
to Amy Calkins to claim your stipend.
Unlocking the Potential of AI in Education and Beyond
On November 15, Tom Mitchell, the founding chair of Carnegie Mellon University's Machine
Learning Department, shared groundbreaking insights with USC AI Propel about how artificial
intelligence is reshaping education and beyond. Mitchell’s current focus explores
AI as a transformative tool in education by using training data to understand how
students learn and by applying large natural language models to create AI tutoring
agents. His work exemplifies how AI can address critical challenges in education while
urging caution about the misuse and regulation of these tools. Mitchell’s work exemplifies
the revolutionary potential of AI while advocating for thoughtful consideration of
its societal impact. His insights inspire critical thinking and innovation to position
AI as a force for meaningful change across disciplines. For more on Tom Mitchell’s
research, visit his profile. You can view his presentation under the On-Demand Learning section of USC’s Research Training & Education website. Make sure to go to the USC-Only Special Topics Videos and use your SSO to access.
Future AI Newsletters in 2025
Thank you for everyone’s feedback during 2024. We invite students, faculty, and instructors
from all majors and disciplines to share their experiences or insights on how AI is
impacting your field for inclusion in future editions of the newsletter. Please send
your ideas to Marcia Purday, CIC AI co-chair, purday@sc.edu, 803-318-3188.
The AI newsletters are designed to be a valuable resource to keep you informed about
this rapidly evolving technology, its implications, and how our faculty and staff
are using generative AI tools. They aim to help us:
Prepare students for success in the modern workplace.
Understand AI’s role in our own work whether in teaching, research, or administrative
tasks.
We recognize that not everyone may find AI relevant to their interests or work. If
this topic doesn’t resonate with you, feel free to disregard this message. Thank you
for engaging with this initiative as we continue exploring how AI is shaping our professional
and academic worlds.
The AI newsletters are intended to serve as a valuable resource for staying informed
about this rapidly evolving technology. They aim to help us: (1) prepare students
for the modern workplace, and (2) understand AI’s role in our own work—whether in
teaching, research, or administrative tasks. We understand that not everyone may be
interested in AI, so please feel free to disregard if it is not relevant or of interest
to you.
University of South Carolina's Center for Teaching Excellence Unveils Generative AI
Resources The University of South Carolina's Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) has launched
a new online resource dedicated to Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education.
Accessible here, the webpage serves as a hub for faculty and educators seeking to understand and
integrate generative AI tools into their teaching practices.
The resource offers:
Educational Guides: Comprehensive materials explaining the basics of generative AI and its implications
for learning.
Best Practices: Strategies for ethically and effectively incorporating AI technologies like ChatGPT
into the curriculum.
Policy Development Support: Guidance on creating classroom policies that address the use of AI by students.
Professional Development Opportunities: Information on upcoming workshops, webinars, and training sessions hosted by the
CTE.
As generative AI continues to reshape the educational landscape, the CTE's initiative
provides timely support for educators aiming to enhance student engagement and learning
outcomes. Please take advantage of these resources to stay informed about the latest
developments and opportunities in AI-driven teaching methodologies.
Exploring the Impact of the IBM SkillsBuild AI Credential in JOUR 202 At the recent College of Information and Communications Town Hall Meeting, faculty
discussed the idea of providing all majors the opportunity to earn an AI credential.
To test the initiative, Dean Reichert piloted the IBM SkillsBuild Artificial Intelligence
Fundamentals credential in his JOUR 202 – Principles of Advertising and Brand Communications
during the Fall semester. Initial feedback from 210 students has been positive.
Survey findings revealed that the credential enhanced students’ understanding of AI.
Ninety-two percent agreed that earning the credental was a worthwhile experience and
gave them a competitive advantage for internships and jobs. Many reported newfound
confidence in applying AI concepts and using AI ethically. The AI Ethics module emerged
as a favorite topic. Students praised its focus on minimizing bias in AI systems.
Hands-on simulations with IBM Watson Studio also stood out for helping students understand
the practical side of AI.
"I thought this certification was a great way to get me thinking deeper about AI and
its increasing popularity in many different industries," one student shared. Another
noted, “I really enjoyed this certification as it will give me a competitive advantage
going into the workplace."
While some students mentioned the significant time investment, most agreed the knowledge
and skills gained were worth the effort. The trial highlighted the credential’s ability
to spark curiosity about AI, emphasize ethical considerations, and provide students
with a competitive edge.
As we evaluate these initial findings, the College is considering expanding the opportunity
for all majors to earn this credential or one similar to it. This initial trial demonstrates
how integrating AI literacy into our curriculum can help empower students in an increasingly
AI-augmented world.
To continue researching whether or not an AI credential should be required for all
majors, many faculty members from CIC have agreed to offer an AI credential to students
in their course in the Spring. We will continue this discussion in the next CIC Town
Hall and welcome your input to shape a robust plan for the college. Please share your
thoughts and ideas about requiring AI credentials for majors with Dr. Sabrina Habib
and Marcia Purday.
Extended Deadlines for AI Training Incentives In recognition of the challenges faced this semester due to Hurricane Helene, we are
extending the deadlines for two professional development incentives to Sunday, January
12, 2025. This extension aims to provide ample opportunity for faculty and staff to
enhance their skills in artificial intelligence (AI) integration.
Faculty and staff who complete the IBM AI Fundamentals certification are eligible for a $150 incentive. To claim this reward, submit your certificate
to Amy Calkins. This initiative acknowledges your dedication to professional growth
and the value you bring to our institution. Instructions for course registration are
attached.
The University of South Carolina offers "Teaching with AI," a self-paced, online course developed by Auburn University's Biggio Center for the
Enhancement of Teaching and Learning. This course is available free to all full-time
faculty and is designed to assist in integrating AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini,
and Copilot into teaching and research. Upon completion, participants will receive
a $600 stipend. To enroll, visit the USC Center for Teaching Excellence. After finishing
the course, send your certificate of completion to Amy Calkins to receive your stipend.
Exploring AI Tools for Academic Research On November 20, Dr. Sabrina Habib led a 90-minute, hands-on workshop showcasing the
transformative potential of AI tools for academic research. This lunch-and-learn event
was attended by a diverse audience, including HBCU and CIC graduate students and faculty.
Habib introduced a suite of AI-powered platforms. Each is tailored to enhance research
productivity and efficiency. She provided an in-depth exploration of the strengths
and limitations of these tools. She also gave attendees actionable insights into their
best use cases. A key highlight of the workshop was Habib’s emphasis on the ethical
use of AI in academia. She also shared innovative workflows designed to save time
while maintaining research integrity.
The overwhelmingly positive response to the workshop included requests for a follow-up
session. Plans are underway for an encore event in the spring, where attendees can
further refine their skills and explore new tools. Stay tuned for details!
The previous newsletter highlighted the School of Information Science faculty and
their participation in a panel at the 2024 ASIST conference. Please see Amy Coward’s
perspective from a recent industry panel discussion.
AI in PR: Preparing the Next Generation of Practitioners Insights from PRSA International Conference Panel Discussion
By Amy Coward, APR, PRSA Fellow
At the recent Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) International Conference,
the session "AI in PR: Preparing the Next Generation of Practitioners" brought together industry experts to discuss the evolving role of artificial intelligence
in public relations. Panelists Aaron Kwittken (Stagwell Marketing Cloud), Nneka Logan
(Virginia Tech), and Kathleen Stansberry (Elon University) provided valuable insights
on navigating AI's opportunities and challenges.
The panel emphasized that AI is a tool, not a replacement for human ingenuity. It
can enrich ideas and improve efficiency, but practitioners must take a human-centered
approach to ensure ethical and transparent use. As organizational consciences, PR
professionals should critically assess AI's implications by asking questions such
as:
“What will be the impact of AI use on the public?”
“What could be the consequences of our actions?”
AI can assist in research and decision-making to offer predictive data and streamlining
processes. However, it draws from existing information, which might include inaccuracies
or biases. Educators must prepare students to use AI responsibly while recognizing
its potential and its pitfalls.
The panelists urged PR practitioners to prioritize diversity and ethics in discussions
about AI adoption. While AI excels in data analytics and coding, human creativity
and contextual understanding remain irreplaceable. By leveraging AI for tasks suited
to computers, PR professionals can focus on strategic thinking and innovation.
In the classroom, educators should demystify AI. They should teach students how it
operates and fosters critical thinking about its applications. AI is a teammate, not
a magic wand, and public relations leaders must guide its use with strong ethical
standards and transparency.
By embracing AI thoughtfully, the PR field can harness its potential to enhance the
profession while ensuring its human-centered values endure.
Register for the Digital Literacy Café Webinar Series Tomorrow (November 6) to Design
and Assess Student Projects that Integrate Generative AI
Are you interested in exploring ways to integrate generative AI into student projects?
Join Adobe on Wednesday, November 6, at 11:00 a.m. for a special Digital Literacy
Café webinar on Designing and Assessing Student Projects that Integrate Generative
AI. This session is tailored for educators who want to foster critical, ethical, and
agile use of AI across all disciplines.
Can’t attend live? No problem! Register now, and you’ll receive a recording to watch at your convenience. Registration Link:
Register Here
Meet the Panelists
Dr. Matt Acevedo – Executive Director of Learning Innovation and Faculty Engagement,
University of Miami
Dr. Wanda White-Walker – Director of the Center for Innovative and Transformative
Instruction, Winston-Salem State University
Dr. Daniel Frank – Continuing Lecturer, Writing Program, UC Santa Barbara
Dr. Farah Bennani – Dean of Math, Science, and Engineering, Elgin Community College
They will present successful exercises and lesson plans designed to engage students
and build transferable skills like creativity, collaboration, and ethical AI usage.
The session will cover:
Practical approaches to incorporating generative AI that enhance student learning
outcomes
Pedagogical principles behind effective AI-based exercises and assessments
Take advantage of this free opportunity to stay at the forefront of digital literacy
education.
Unlock the Power of AI in Academic Research with Sabrina Habib, PhD
Join us on November 20, 2024, for a Lunch and Learn event led by Sabrina Habib, PhD,
an associate professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications. Habib,
a recognized expert in the field, will guide you through practical ways to use AI
to advance your academic research in this hands-on workshop.
Session Highlights:
Do’s and Don’ts of Using AI in Academic Work: Learn the ethical and practical considerations of integrating AI into your research.
Using AI for Literature Reviews: Explore tools to quickly organize, synthesize, and uncover new insights from existing
research.
Developing Research Questions with AI: See how AI can assist in generating and refining research questions for impactful
studies.
Please bring your laptop for hands-on practice and immediate application of the tools
discussed.
Event Details:
Date: November 20, 2024
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: SJMC Room 318
Lunch is being provided.
A separate e-mail with details is going out this week with a link to register.
Faculty, staff, and students from South Carolina’s Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCUs) are also invited to join this event on November 20 to explore
how AI can empower academic pursuits.
Five Reasons You Should Complete the IBM AI Fundamentals Certification
For many of you, using AI is already part of your skill set. Perhaps you’ve earned
certifications in your field, published research, or incorporated AI into your courses
and work. Here are five reasons why completing this certification can benefit you:
1. Discover How AI Shapes Your Future Career The IBM AI Fundamentals course includes a section on “Your Future in AI - The Job
Landscape,” which explores how AI is reshaping careers across nearly every field.
By understanding these trends, you’ll gain insight into where opportunities are emerging,
what skills are in demand, and how you can apply AI to keep your work relevant and
impactful. This knowledge can help prepare you to seize new possibilities in an AI-driven
world.
2. Navigate the Complexities of AI Ethics The ethical implications of AI are more relevant than ever. This certification gives
you a framework to understand these issues and prepares you to engage thoughtfully
in conversations about AI ethics. With this shared foundation, you can confidently
guide students on responsible AI practices to help shape a culture of integrity and
ethical awareness.
3. Enhance Collaboration and Build New Partnerships Imagine the possibilities when everyone in our college speaks a common language about
AI. This shared understanding opens up doors for collaboration across departments.
It allows you to work more effectively on interdisciplinary projects and leverage
insights from your colleagues. The certification empowers you to bring fresh ideas
to the table and contribute to innovative, cross-functional teamwork.
4. Invest in Your Professional Development Completing this certification is more than just an addition to your resume. It’s an
investment in yourself. By mastering foundational AI concepts, you’re enhancing your
skills and positioning yourself as a leader in an evolving field. Your commitment
to continuous learning sets a powerful example for your students. Plus, it enhances
your standing in academic and professional circles.
5. Earn a $150 Reward for Your Efforts As a thank-you for completing the certification by January 1, 2025, we’re offering
a $150 incentive for faculty and staff. Simply submit your certificate to Amy Calkins.
It’s our college’s way of acknowledging the value you bring to our institution and
your commitment to professional growth. Attached are the instructions to register
for the course.
Together, let’s create a future where our shared knowledge strengthens our students,
enhances our teaching, and prepares CIC for the opportunities ahead.
USC Professors Lead ASIST 2024 Panel on AI Research Agenda for Library and Information
Science
CIC faculty members Ehsan Mohammadi, PhD, Associate Professor, and Alamir Novin, PhD,
Assistant Professor, from the School of Information Science, were featured panelists
at the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIST) 2024 conference.
They joined colleagues from San Jose State University to shape a research agenda for
artificial intelligence (AI) in Library and Information Science (LIS). Their panel,
“AI4LIS: Towards a Research Agenda,” focused on evaluating AI’s role in LIS to identify
critical gaps and chart a path for responsible, impactful research in the field.
Mohammadi shared insights from his research on the adoption, benefits, and challenges
of generative AI across academic disciplines. Through a data-driven approach, he demonstrated
that while AI use is prevalent, adoption rates vary by field. Common applications
include tasks such as literature reviews and idea generation for research, as well
as content creation for teaching. However, Mohammadi emphasized significant challenges
with AI adoption in academia, particularly issues around trust, privacy, ethical considerations,
and transparency. These issues are critical to address for responsible integration
into academia.
Novin highlighted the importance of AI literacy for LIS students. He noted that while
coding expertise is valuable, a fundamental understanding of AI and its societal implications
is essential for LIS professionals. Novin’s approach aims to demystify AI to make
it accessible for students. He also stressed the importance of incorporating discussions
on ethics, accountability, and bias in the classroom. This foundation prepares students
to critically assess and responsibly implement AI in their professional roles.
San Jose State’s Darra Hofman, PhD, contributed to the discussion by addressing ethical
AI, AI bias, predictive modeling, and the role of digital records in human rights
contexts. She noted the rapid expansion of AI research in LIS. There are more than
28,000 scholarly articles on “artificial intelligence” in the field. This underscores
the vast impact of AI and the need for careful management of its implications. She
discussed AI’s role in libraries and the issues of fairness and bias (FATE AI), privacy,
security, and AI’s effects on library labor.
Souvick Ghosh, PhD, also from San Jose State, presented his work on ethical AI, multimodal
analysis for social media, and integrating responsible AI practices within library
systems. Ghosh discussed his ongoing efforts to create courses and outreach programs
that support responsible AI usage in LIS education.
During the Q&A, panelists explored the essential goals of AI in LIS, such as fostering
inclusivity for low-resource environments and advancing research that addresses the
needs of marginalized communities. Audience questions focused on AI-related risks
in LIS. Participants were concerned about privacy and security. The panel closed with
a call to action for collaboration to establish a fair, inclusive, and practical AI
research agenda within the LIS field.
Earn a $600 Stipend with Auburn University's "Teaching with AI" Course
Course Overview: The University of South Carolina is offering “Teaching with AI,” a self-paced, online
course designed by Auburn University’s Biggio Center for the Enhancement of Teaching
and Learning free to all full-time faculty. The course is crafted to help faculty
and staff integrate AI into teaching and research. It provides essential knowledge
for incorporating tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot into academic environments
for instruction and research.
Benefits of Completion: Faculty who complete the course’s eight interactive modules will earn the AUAI Explorer badge and receive a $600 stipend for additional professional development.
Why Enroll? As AI continues to transform education, this course gives you the skills and strategies
to stay current. You’ll learn practical applications that will make your teaching
more dynamic and your research more efficient.
How to Sign Up: Visit the USC Center for Teaching Excellence to learn more and register for the class. Once you finish the course, simply send your certificate of completion
to Amy Calkins to claim your stipend.
Take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your skills, earn a certification and
stipend, and join the AI-driven future of education.
CIC's Dean Tom Reichert Highlights AI Education Initiatives at Renmin University
Tom Reichert, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Information and Communications (CIC),
recently delivered a keynote address at Renmin University in Beijing. His presentation
focused on how CIC is equipping students to thrive in an AI-augmented world.
Addressing an international audience at Renmin University underscores the global significance
of AI in education and fosters cross-cultural academic collaboration. Reichert emphasized
the importance of preparing students to navigate and lead in a landscape increasingly
influenced by artificial intelligence.
Five AI Tools To Explore
DataRobot - An AI-driven platform that automates the process of building, deploying, and maintaining
machine learning models. Assists in data analysis and predictive modeling. Enhances
research methodologies and data-driven decision-making. Cost: Offers a free trial. Pricing details available upon request.
Pinpoint by Google - A research tool to help journalists analyze large collections of documents, transcriptions,
and images using AI. Quickly identifies relevant . information and patterns within
extensive datasets. Cost: Free to use.
Murf.AI - An AI voice generator that converts text into natural-sounding speech to offer
various voice options. Useful for creating voiceovers for videos, podcasts, and other
multimedia content. Cost: Free trial available. Subscription plans for full features.
Paperguide - An AI tool designed to assist in discovering, reading, writing, and managing research
papers efficiently. Aids in literature reviews and research management, streamlining
the academic writing process. Cost: Free with optional premium features.
RapidSubs Captions & Subtitles - An AI-driven app that creates stylish and accurate subtitles for videos. Enhances
video content accessibility and engagement by providing clear and synchronized subtitles.
Cost: Offers free and paid plans.
Please let me know if you have story ideas or AI tips to share in the next newsletter.
We are excited to announce the launch of CIC’s new AI-focused website, “Fearlessly First in Artificial Intelligence.” This platform highlights our collective efforts in leading the AI revolution in
our areas of expertise, preparing innovators, and pioneering research.
Leading the AI Revolution: Faculty and Staff Expertise
Our CIC faculty and staff are at the forefront of AI innovation. We are driving advancements
and setting new standards in AI education and research.
Preparing Innovators: AI Education Beyond the Classroom
CIC is dedicated to preparing the next generation of AI leaders. The new website highlights
the various educational initiatives designed to equip students with the skills and
knowledge needed to excel in the AI-driven world.
Pioneering AI Research: Advancing Knowledge and Understanding
At the heart of CIC’s AI initiatives is a commitment to research. The new website
features the latest research projects and collaborations.
Visit fearlesslyfirst.ai to explore our AI initiatives and see how CIC is leading the way in artificial intelligence.
Join the Watson Event: A Competitive Workshop for Higher Education Students
As part of our commitment to preparing our students for AI beyond the classroom, CIC
is partnering with IBM to present Call for Code: IBM watsonx on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the USC School of Journalism and Mass Communications. This
workshop offers higher education students from across South Carolina an opportunity
to enhance their knowledge of generative AI using IBM’s watsonx software. Participants
will engage in hands-on learning and apply their skills to solve a real-world challenge
revealed during the event. The top three teams will be awarded prizes. The first-place
team will receive $10,000 to be shared among the individuals. No coding or technical skills are needed to participate.
Why should your students participate?
Skill Development: Gain practical experience with cutting-edge AI technology.
Networking: Connect with peers, industry professionals, and potential employers.
Career Advancement: Access new free watsonx courses from IBM to propel their career goals.
Prizes: Compete for substantial monetary rewards.
Space is limited to 200 participants, so please encourage your students to register early to secure their spot. The registration deadline is Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Attached is a copy of the flyer to share with your students.
Also, we need volunteers to help on the day of the event. If you are interested in
volunteering, please contact Carol Kirkland at ck52@mailbox.sc.edu.
Carolina News and Reporter students are creating a newsroom ethics policy for AI
By Zane Heinlein, Senior Broadcast Journalism Student
School of Journalism and Mass Communication students in Carolina News and Reporter are developing a specific set of guidelines for when to use artificial intelligence
in their work.
Senior Instructor Dr. Laura K. Smith facilitated the first discussion. The process
will take place throughout the fall semester.
It surrounded the use of transcription services, generative AI and audio enhancers
in broadcast, digital and social media journalism.
Senior Instructor and co-lead of Carolina News Rick Peterson said putting together
an outline is key to quality and fair reporting.
“I think it’s a good idea to figure out what’s ethical at this point and what isn’t
or what’s really good for learning and what isn’t,” Peterson said.
The policy aims to outline the appropriate use of AI in any part of the journalistic
process, including finding people to interview, writing and copy editing.
More than 30 graduate and undergraduate students went through possible scenarios.
They agreed more on programs that eased their workflow like Otter.ai. However, the
group butted heads on ones that checked for AP style or fixing sentence structure.
Peterson said AI should help guide students’ learning, not replace it.
“For instance, AI can do a lot of advanced things but some of that stuff you’d rather
be learning how to do yourself, getting the basics down and not letting AI do all
the work for you,” Peterson said.
Bill Frye, a senior broadcast journalism student in Carolina News, said creating a
policy helps put up boundaries for him and his classmates.
“I think that one of the biggest things about journalism is literally just talking
with other people and seeing what’s going on with them in some other situation,” Frye
said. “I think that AI is not going to be able to do that but I could be wrong.”
Visit AI Photos to see images from the discussion.
Discover the Future of AI Governance in Higher Education
Generative AI is revolutionizing higher education. It is offering new opportunities
for personalized learning and tutoring support. However, it also brings challenges
to academic integrity and ethical considerations. The research paper “AI Governance in Higher Education: Case Studies of Guidance at Big Ten Universities” by Chuhao Wu, He Zhang, and John M. Carroll explores how leading universities are
navigating these complexities. Through detailed case studies of 14 prestigious universities
in the United States, the paper examines multi-unit and role-specific governance of
AI, highlighting both the strengths and potential limitations of these strategies.
The findings provide practical implications for guiding responsible AI usage in higher
education institutions and beyond. You can read “AI Governance in Higher Education:
Case Studies of Guidance at Big Ten Universities” here.
Update on IBMSkills Build Progress and New Incentive
Currently, 55% of the CIC faculty and staff has successfully completed the certification. To break
it down further, 41% of our faculty members and an impressive 78% of our staff have reached this milestone. Your dedication to enhancing your skills
is commendable and sets a high bar for our college.
To further encourage participation, we are introducing a new incentive. Any faculty
or staff member who completes the course by January 1, 2025, and submits their certificate
to Amy Calkins will receive a $150 incentive. This reward is a token of appreciation for your hard work and an investment in our
collective expertise.
Save the Date – November 20, 2024
“AI Tools for Academic Research” Presented by Dr. Sabrina Habib
Topics:
Do’s and don’ts of using AI for academic purposes
How to use AI apps for literature review
How to use AI apps for research questions
Bring a computer for hands-on practice.
Also, Dr. Habib is presenting for HBUs in South Carolina on November 19 from 11:30
a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in SJMC Room 318.
Special thanks to Zane Heinlein and Dr. Laura K. Smith for their contributions to
this newsletter. Please let me know if you have any stories, ideas, or training opportunities
that you’d like to include in the next edition.
All the best,
Marcia
Dear Colleagues,
I hope everyone had a great first week! I want to begin this newsletter by acknowledging
the vast AI expertise many of you already possess. Your dedication to staying ahead
in this rapidly evolving field is evident and something that all of us should take
pride in.
As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of continual learning and
professional growth here at CIC, we’ve partnered with IBM to offer the SkillsBuild
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fundamentals course. Our goal is to have the majority
of our college certified in AI through this program. It is ambitious but achievable.
Why is this important? Beyond the personal and professional development this certification
offers, it’s about positioning CIC as a leader in the digital age. By becoming AI
certified, you are not just adding another credential to your resumes. You are helping
to fortify the future of our college and ensuring that CIC remains at the forefront
of technological innovation not only within the University of South Carolina but across
the broader academic and professional community.
So, I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. The deadline to participate
in the financial incentive is Tuesday, September 3. Send your AI certificate to Amy
Caulkins to receive credit. See attached for enrollment details.
AI and Ethics
This week Ruth Avidar, Ph.D., a senior lecturer at Yezreel Valley College in Israel, is presenting a lecture
based on her groundbreaking research, titled "Strategic Approaches of AI Technology
by PR Leadership: Exploring Ethical Artificial Intelligence Usage in Public Relations."
Her research explores how PR firms can maintain ethical standards amidst AI technological
disruption. It offers strategies to ensure that AI applications align with the core
principles of PR professionalism—principles that are increasingly under scrutiny as
AI becomes more pervasive.
It is also important to acknowledge the outstanding work that our colleagues are doing.
Alamir Novin, an assistant professor and researcher in the School of Information Science,
is a data scientist at the forefront of AI research and instruction at USC. As the
faculty lead for USC’s AI & AGI Lab, he is conducting AI experiments that are driving
innovation through interdisciplinary collaborations. In partnership with CIC’s Social
Media Insights Lab, his team explores the interactions between AI technology and
societal dynamics using big data.
Novin’s lab also collaborates with CIC’s Biometrics and User Experience (BaUX) Lab
to investigate the human biological responses to AI advancements. This research is
important in understanding how AI can be tailored to better serve human needs while
maintaining ethical standards in its application.
One of the most exciting partnerships Novin has spearheaded is with MethodsAGI. They
are using cutting-edge simulation software to study the impacts of AI on learning
and cognition. This collaboration is pushing the boundaries of how we understand AI’s
role in education and cognitive development.
Also, Novin is an integral part of a four-university consortium that includes Cornell,
Temple, and UT-Arlington. This collaboration further expands the reach and impact
of his research, positioning CIC as a leader in AI innovation on a national scale.
You can learn more about Novin’s approach to AI research in the full article: Thinking about Thinking.
In the information age where the boundaries between human cognition and artificial
intelligence blur, Alamir Novin's research delves into the intricate realm of Human-Computer
Interaction.
www.sc.edu
Mastering AI Prompt Writing with Greg Matusky
Several CIC staff members recently attended a webinar by Greg Matusky of Gregory FCA,
titled “Mastering AI Prompt Writing,” hosted by the International Association of Business
Communicators (IABC). The session was designed for those new to AI and provided practical
tips for crafting effective prompts.
Matusky introduced the “Six Pillars for Writing a Great Prompt,” which include:
1. Voice: Reflect the speaker’s voice in the prompt.
2. Audience: Tailor the prompt to the specific audience.
3. Details: Provide relevant facts since AI like ChatGPT is limited to pre-2022 data.
4. Tone: Specify whether the tone should be playful, direct, or professional.
5. Message: Structure the prompt to guide AI through a logical narrative.
6. Channel: Indicate the intended format, whether it’s a blog post, social media update,
or speech.
The session also compared Claude and ChatGPT, noting that Claude excels in summarizing
documents, explaining complex topics, and engaging in creative dialogue. Matusky shared
a white paper detailing how his agency has achieved a 3.75% ROI through AI integration.
Both the white paper and webinar summary are attached for more information.
Sabrina Habib recently shared an insightful article on the growing importance of media
literacy in our digital age. With AI-generated images becoming increasingly realistic,
it’s crucial for educators and students to develop the skills needed to distinguish
between real and artificial content. https://britannicaeducation.com/blog/quiz-real-or-ai/
To help your students and you sharpen these critical skills, I encourage you to take
the “Real or AI Quiz: Can You Tell the Difference?” This fun, interactive quiz challenges you to identify which images are real and
which are AI-generated. It’s not only a great resource for your own media literacy
but also an excellent tool to test and enhance your students’ ability to critically
evaluate visual content.
Investigate strategies for detecting real versus fake images. Test your students'
image evaluation skills with our interactive challenge!
britannicaeducation.com
Closing
Thank you to Shannon Bowen, Amy Coward, APR, Fellow PRSA, and Sabrina Habib for their
contributions to this month’s newsletter. Your insights and expertise are what make
our community thrive. I also appreciate everyone who shared story ideas, experiences,
and valuable AI resources. If your submission didn’t make it into this edition, I’ll
do my best to try to include it in the next one. Let’s keep the momentum going. Please
continue to share your AI experiences, collaborations and story ideas. Together we
will strengthen our community, uphold the excellence of our college, and achieve even
greater things!
Sincerely,
Marcia
As we are nearing the start of the new academic year, I wanted to share a quote with
you:
“It must be remembered that the purpose of education is not to fill the minds of students
with facts … it is to teach them to think.” – Robert M. Hutchins
In the context of generative AI, this quote is particularly relevant. While AI can
provide vast amounts of information and generate content, it is crucial for us to
focus on teaching students how to evaluate, interpret, and think critically about
that content. Students should not be just passive recipients of AI-generated information
but active participants in analyzing and understanding it. This approach aligns with
Hutchins' philosophy, where the true purpose of education is to cultivate thoughtful
minds capable of making informed decisions in a complex world.
AI Policy Statements for Syllabus
Given the importance of fostering critical thinking in the generative AI world, it
is essential that we consider how AI is used in our classrooms beginning with the
policies we establish.
Currently, the University of South Carolina does not have an “official policy” on
using generative AI. Instead, the university’s position is that it is a violation
for students to represent work that they did not do. Work generated by AI that is
not credited falls under that policy. It is up to you to develop your own policies
regarding the use of generative AI in your classes. Where do you begin?
Also, attached are some examples from classes at other institutions:
· Media and Society - Keene State College – Mike Wakefield
· Social Media Marketing - UMASS Lowell – Spencer M. Ross
· Introduction to Professional Writing - University of North Carolina Wilmington
– Lance Cummings
· Professional as Writer & Researcher - Pacific University – Andrew Longhofer
· First Year Writing - Regis University – Loretta Notareschi
Communication Strategy
The syllabus is a good place to begin to communicate your AI policy. You may want
to consider a communications strategy to help prevent any confusion around your position,
academic integrity, grading, etc. Here are some ideas:
Passive Communications
· Printed handout in class
· A Blackboard module
· Video or narrated presentation about AI in the intro module on Blackboard
· FAQ about AI page on Blackboard
· Assignment descriptions reinforcing your policy
· Rubrics - include where AI detection tools might be used and consequences
of using AI for each assignment
Active Communications
· Verbal announcements in class
· Syllabus/Course policies quiz
· Q&A Sessions
· Group discussion in class
· Online discussions throughout the course
· Activities in class
· Active AI learning activity
Creating Assignments to Incorporate AI into Assignments
In addition to crafting a policy statement, you need to determine how and when you
incorporate AI in your classrooms and assignments. The attached article, "Artificial
Intelligence and the Philosophy of Education” by Silvio Nocilla, underscores the importance
of aligning AI implementation with the best interests of students while maintaining
the integrity of educational practices. It focuses on how AI can be integrated into
progressive teaching methods by emphasizing experiential learning and real-world connections.
It highlights the importance of ensuring that AI enhances, rather than diminishes,
the quality of education.
Following are some videos about designing assignments:
In another YouTube video, CIC faculty Vanessa Kitzie, Valerie Byrd-Fort, and Jenna
Spiering discussed “Generative AI: What Librarians Need to Know.” (1:29:41) This special session was presented to librarians through the South Carolina
State Library. It is an impressive presentation!
IBM AI SkillsBuild Update
Last, congratulations to everyone who has completed the IBM AI SkillsBuild course.
Almost 50% of our faculty and staff have successfully completed the certification.
Visit https://sb-auth.skillsbuild.org/signup to register. See attached for enrollment details.
Please feel free to share your AI policy statement, communications strategy and/or
examples of assignments using AI. Also, please share any good news stories about your
colleagues or yourself regarding generative AI.
I look forward to seeing everyone on Friday, August 16.
Marcia
Good afternoon -
The deadlines for the AI certification programs have been extended to give you more
time to power up your skills before the Fall semester goes into full swing.
IBM SkillsBuild Certification:
New Deadline: Tuesday, September 3
What: Enhance your knowledge with free courses from IBM experts in generative AI,
machine learning, and more.
How: To register, follow the instructions in the attached document for enrollment
details. Completion certificates should be sent to Amy Calkins.
Benefits: Faculty and staff will receive a $300 incentive for completing the certification
by the deadline. This program helps you stay ahead with a valuable digital credential
from IBM.
Why: According to an IBM Institute of Business Value report, 40% of the workforce
will need reskilling in the next three years due to AI and automation.
Update: Nearly 20% percent of our faculty and over 60% of our staff have already achieved
certification. Roughly 35% of CIC have completed the program.
Auburn University "Teaching with AI" Course:
New Deadline: Monday, December 2
What: A self-paced online course by Auburn University's Biggio Center for the Enhancement
of Teaching and Learning, designed to help you integrate AI tools into your teaching
and research.
Benefits: Earn the AUAI Explorer badge. Faculty will receive a $600 stipend for additional
professional development upon course completion. Completion certificates should be
sent to Amy Calkins.
Why: As AI technologies become more prevalent, understanding how to use tools like
ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and others is crucial. This award-winning course provides
engaging, interactive content that explores practical applications of AI in teaching
and research.
Take advantage of these extended deadlines to build your AI expertise and enhance
your professional skills!
Adobe AI - Enhancing Creativity and Efficiency
As part of our ongoing AI initiative to empower our educators and administrators,
we are excited to introduce the next tool in our AI series: Adobe AI. Adobe AI is
revolutionizing the way we approach creative projects, enhancing both efficiency and
creativity.
Also, the College of Information and Communications is providing Adobe Creative Cloud
free of charge to all CIC majors. This initiative aims to equip our students with cutting-edge tools to enhance their
learning and creative projects, further preparing them for successful careers in their
fields.
Adobe Creative Cloud vs. Adobe Sensei
Adobe Creative Cloud is a suite of over 20 creative apps for professional design work,
including Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Illustrator, InDesign and Firefly. It also includes
cloud storage, social media templates, and access to Behance and Adobe Portfolio.
Adobe Sensei is an AI framework that automates and improves design tasks in Creative
Cloud apps like Photoshop. Sensei features include content-aware fill, auto selection,
face-aware liquify, curvature pen tool, and object selection.
Some Key Features of Adobe AI
1. Content-Aware Fill:
- Automatically remove unwanted elements from images and seamlessly fill the gaps
with contextually appropriate content.
- Perfect for photo editing, allowing you to clean up visuals quickly without compromising
on quality.
2. Neural Filters:
- Apply a range of artistic and practical effects to images with just a few clicks.
- Transform portraits, enhance colors, and even change facial expressions to suit
your creative vision.
3. Auto Reframe:
- Automatically reframe video footage to fit different aspect ratios for various
platforms.
- Ensures that important elements remain in the frame, saving you time during video
editing.
4. Adobe Sensei:
- Powers intelligent features across Creative Cloud.
- Includes capabilities like automatic tagging for image libraries, personalized
recommendations, and automated design elements.
5. Voice Control:
- Utilize voice commands to control Adobe applications, making the creative process
more intuitive and hands-free.
Benefits for Educators and Researchers
- Enhanced Creativity: Adobe AI tools free up time from repetitive tasks, allowing
you to focus on the creative aspects of your projects.
- Improved Efficiency: Automate time-consuming processes like image retouching, video
editing, and asset management.
- Accessibility: Voice control and automated features make Adobe tools more accessible
to users with different needs and abilities.
- Research and Presentation: Quickly create polished visuals and multimedia content
for research presentations and publications.
Benefits for Staff Members
- Streamlined Workflows: Adobe AI can automate routine tasks, such as organizing digital
assets and generating reports, allowing staff to focus on more strategic initiatives.
- Professional Development: Learning to use advanced AI tools can enhance your skill
set, making you more proficient in modern digital tools and more valuable in your
role.
- Enhanced Communication: Create compelling visual content for internal and external
communications with ease, improving the quality and impact of your messages.
- Time Savings: Automated processes reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks, freeing
up your schedule for more important responsibilities.
Prompt Examples for Adobe AI
Journalism Teacher:
- "Generate an infographic that illustrates the key statistics of a recent survey
on media consumption based on the following information ( )."
- "Enhance a photograph for a feature story, focusing on adjusting lighting and removing
background distractions."
Library Science:
- "Create a visually appealing catalog cover that highlights new arrivals and featured
books based on the following information( )."
- "Generate a clean and professional layout for an academic paper on digital archiving."
Staff:
- "Design a sleek and modern title slide for a presentation on organizational goals."
- "Generate an engaging and informative infographic slide summarizing key project
milestones."
Getting Started with Adobe AI
To get started with Adobe AI, follow these steps:
1. Purchase an Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription:
The university offers Adobe Creative Cloud through the Department of Information Technology
at a discounted rate. Software programs are available at reduced or no cost for use
on university-owned computers. You can find this option at my.sc.edu under "Purchase Computer Software." Faculty must get approval from their School's
director, and staff need approval from their department head. Approval depends on
your job responsibilities, so check with your director or department head for more
information.
If you don't get approved for the university subscription, you can purchase it directly
from Adobe. Individual plans start at $52.99 per month for all Adobe applications. Adobe offers discounted rates for students and educators, starting
at $19.99 per month. For more details, visit the Adobe website.
2. Explore Tutorials and Resources:
Adobe offers a wealth of tutorials and resources on their website to help you get
acquainted with AI features. Visit the Adobe Learn page for video tutorials, user guides, and articles.
3. Experiment with Features:
- Start by exploring some of the key AI features mentioned above. Practice using
Content-Aware Fill, Neural Filters, and Auto Reframe to see how they can enhance your
work.
4. Join Online Communities:
- Connect with other Adobe users and professionals through forums and online communities.
Sites like the Adobe Support Community can be valuable for tips, troubleshooting, and inspiration.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions for future AI tools you would
like to explore. Also, let me know it you have any AI topics you’d like to explore
in future newsletters or any AI articles you would like to share. Also, please let
me know if you are working with AI tools that you especially like. We would love to
share your experiences with our colleagues.
Marcia
_
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its integration into higher education
brings opportunities and challenges. This newsletter covers the ethical considerations
necessary for our responsible AI adoption, the differing adoption rates between students
and faculty, and the potential future impact of AI on higher education. Plus, there
is a new tool introduction for faculty and staff.
Embracing Generative AI Responsibly
A recent report titled “Enhancing Higher Education With Generative AI: A Responsible Approach” provides a comprehensive framework for implementing AI in academia. The report emphasizes
the importance of balanced implementation. It advocates for clear guidelines and governance while maintaining human oversight.
This approach ensures that AI tools are used ethically and effectively, enhancing
personalized learning, improving student engagement, and saving time for instructors
and staff on administrative tasks.
The report also highlights the need to address concerns related to accuracy, bias, and academic integrity. Institutions, including CIC, must foster open discussions among faculty, students,
and staff. Training for the entire college is crucial as the technology rapidly evolves,
so everyone is equipped to use AI responsibly.
IBM AI SkillsBuild Update
In line with this commitment, 11% of our faculty and 21% of our staff have successfully
completed the IBM SkillsBuild certification, bringing the overall completion rate
to 14% among CIC faculty and staff. This comprehensive 10-hour class introduces essential
AI technologies that will enhance our curriculum, advance research projects, promote
professional growth, improve operational efficiency through informed decision-making
processes, and offer financial incentives to you upon successful completion. We encourage
you to complete the IBM SkillsBuild certification by August 1, 2024. Visit
As we continue to embrace AI in our academic community, it’s important to recognize
and address the varying levels of adoption and comfort with this technology. There
is a noticeable gap in adoption rates between students and faculty. According to a
recent survey reported by Inside Higher Ed, A New Digital Divide: Student AI Use Surges, Leaving Faculty Behind, 51% of students believe AI has helped them achieve better grades, and 56% report
improved efficiency. In contrast, only 14% of faculty feel confident using AI in their
teaching. This disparity is causing friction, with nearly a third of students reporting
warnings against AI use from professors. The survey underscores the need for universities
to address this digital divide by providing support for faculty and staff to become
more comfortable with AI tools.
To help bridge this gap, we would like to introduce you to another AI tool, Google Gemini. Google Gemini is a cutting-edge AI platform developed by Google, designed to integrate
machine learning and natural language processing to assist with various tasks. It
aims to streamline workflows, enhance productivity, and provide intuitive, intelligent
support for users in academic and professional settings.
Write prompts to create blog outlines and content,
Draft emails in Gemini and export them to Gmail,
Design prompts to find and summarize industry reports,
Manage the built-in image detection capabilities,
Use the YouTube extension to find and summarize YouTube videos.
Overall, the video provides a comprehensive overview of Google Gemini and its functionalities.
Professional and Ethical Considerations
Despite the availability of advanced tools like Google Gemini, not everyone is quick
to embrace AI. Scott Latham’s article, “Memo to Faculty: AI Is Not Your Friend,” offers a critical perspective on the integration of AI into higher education. Latham
warns that AI could replace many teaching functions by 2030, urging faculty to emphasize
critical thinking and experiential learning to maintain their relevance. He advises
against complacency and highlights the importance of protecting intellectual property.
Latham’s cautionary stance serves as a reminder that while AI has the potential to
enhance education, it also poses significant risks. We must remain vigilant and proactive
in shaping the role of AI in our classrooms while ensuring that it complements rather
than replaces our expertise.
Guardrails to Navigate the Future
To help educate faculty on how to incorporate AI ethically into the classroom while
understanding the risks of AI, USC is offering a course, Teaching with AI, from the Auburn University’s Biggio Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning.
This comprehensive program guides you through the best practices for integrating AI
tools in a way that enhances learning experiences without compromising ethical standards.
You have a year to complete the course. However, the College of Information and Communications
is offering a $600 stipend to support your professional development and travel funds
for those who complete the course by October 20, 2024. Send your completion certificate
to Amy Calkins. Once you have submitted the registration form, please keep an eye
on your email inbox for further instructions from Instructure Canvas (notifications@instructure.com). Following is a testimonial from one of our colleagues who has completed the Teaching with AI course:
Dear CIC colleagues,
I have completed the Auburn AI training over the past few weeks. It took some time
but was worth the effort. As we have emphasized in the College this year, AI is changing
higher ed--how we teach, how students learn, how we manage our work and service--and
is changing the professional workspaces our students will enter upon graduation. One
idea I particularly liked from the Auburn training was that if we don't teach our
students how to learn using AI, then all they are doing is teaching AI to become smarter
while they do not become smarter themselves. That is not a win for our students or
for society.
I have seen that many of you are incorporating Gen AI learning outcomes into new courses
proposed and into your assignments and activities. This is fantastic leadership for
the university and for our future grads. Students in our courses will be a step or
two ahead of graduates from other universities that do not have this background and
training. Your innovative use of AI for learning and teaching will make a difference
in terms of student outcomes, but also in terms of our own enjoyment and success in
our careers as academics.
I appreciate the enthusiasm you bring to the College about innovative pedagogies and
incorporating Generative AI into our curriculum and the student experience.
Many thanks!
Kim Thompson
Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
College of Information and Communication
Looking Ahead
As we navigate the complexities of AI in higher education, it is crucial we strike
a balance between embracing innovation and maintaining ethical standards. By fostering
open discussions in the College of Information and Communications and providing ongoing
training, we can harness the potential of AI while safeguarding the integrity of our
academic community.
Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns, tools, prompts or testimonials
that you would like to share.
All the best,
Marcia
I hope everyone is having a great summer and had a wonderful July 4.
University of South Carolina Hackathon with IBM SkillsBuild
We are excited to announce that CIC tentatively plans to host a full-day Hackathon
in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild on Saturday, September 28. This special event
is designed for high school students, members of Black Girls Code, students from Historically
Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), CIC students, faculty, and staff. This event
promises to be a dynamic and engaging experience, fostering innovation and collaboration
among participants.
Support Black Girls Code: Earn IBM SkillsBuild Certification and Trigger $100 Donation
In addition to the Hackathon, there is a unique opportunity for CIC employees to support
Black Girls Code. For each CIC employee who earns the IBM SkillsBuild AI Fundamentals certification,
a donor has pledged to give $100 to Black Girls Code in their honor. Black Girls Code
is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young girls of color by providing
them with opportunities to learn computer programming and technology skills. By completing
the IBM SkillsBuild course, CIC employees can support an exceptional nonprofit while
earning the certification.
IBM SkillsBuild AI Fundamentals course deadline fast approaching
The IBM SkillsBuild AI Fundamentals course is a 10-hour class that introduces relevant
AI technologies, which can be integrated into your curriculum and research. Participants
who successfully complete the course by August 1, 2024, and submit their certificate
to Amy Calkins, will have $300 transferred to their school director for additional
travel funds or professional development. To register, visit
Sam Beals, School of Journalism and Mass Communications Graduate Student Services
Manager and a recent graduate of the IBM SkillsBuild course, shared his experience:
“Before taking the Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals course, my prior experience
with AI consisted of some brief online tutorials and the occasional use of ChatGPT.
I really had not taken the time to actually learn what AI was all about and what we
as users can do with the countless tools at our fingertips. I found the course to
be very practical and working through the modules was a seamless experience. I especially
enjoyed the section on AI and data ethics, which is certainly a popular topic nowadays.
Also, the concepts taught in this course gave me several ideas on how to streamline
some of my processes working in student services at USC. Being able to obtain an AI
credential backed by IBM, a global leader in technology innovation, is a nice touch.
Whether we’re ready or not, AI is here to stay, and this course provided a solid foundation
on both the theoretical and practical aspects of this exciting and growing industry.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with cutting-edge AI technologies, support a
meaningful cause, and enhance your professional development.
Microsoft AI: A Powerful Tools for Faculty and Staff
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, leveraging AI tools can significantly enhance
productivity and creativity. According to the 2024 Work Trend Index by Microsoft and Linkedin, the use of generative AI has become widespread, with 75% of workers globally using
it. Among them, 90% report that AI saves time, 85% say it helps focus on important
tasks, 84% credit it for enhancing creativity, and 83% say it makes work more enjoyable.
For CIC faculty and staff, Microsoft offers a suite of AI-powered tools integrated
into its Edge browser and Microsoft Copilot designed to help you in your daily tasks.
Microsoft Edge Browser
Microsoft Edge is more than just a web browser. It’s an AI-powered tool that helps you achieve more
with features like Copilot, Designer, Compose, Image Creator, VPN, etc. These features are designed to save time, enhance productivity, and protect
online privacy. For example, the Collections feature allows you to gather and organize web content efficiently, which is particularly
useful for research, lesson plans and content curation.
Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant integrated into Microsoft 365 applications. It is available for
free through on the Microsoft Edge Browser and provides a range of functionalities
to streamline work processes. Here are some examples:
Summarizing Emails: Copilot can quickly summarize lengthy email threads, highlighting key points and
action items, making it easier to stay on top of communications.
Drafting Copy: Whether it’s drafting a press release, article, or social media post, Copilot can
generate initial drafts based on prompts, saving time and ensuring consistency.
Summarizing Reports: Copilot can condense lengthy reports into concise summaries, making it easier to
digest large volumes of information.
Creating Images: With AI-powered design tools, users can generate custom images and graphics tailored
to their needs.
Creating Music with Lyrics: Through a partnership with Suno, Copilot enables you to create complete songs, including lyrics, instrumentals, and
vocals, from simple text prompts. This tool is particularly beneficial for creative
directors and content creators looking to add unique musical elements to their projects.
Summarizing and Translating Documents: Copilot also excels in understanding and summarizing complex documents, even if
they’re in a foreign language.
Whether it’s summarizing complex information, drafting content, or creating multimedia
elements, Microsoft’s suite of tools offers versatile solutions to meet diverse professional
needs. Feel free to explore these tools and see how they can transform your daily
tasks and projects! Following is a video, Get Started with Microsoft Copilot (Beginners Guide), from Anders Jensen, an assistant professor in the Kennedy School at Harvard University.
It is about seven minutes long. You can find his complete Copilot course, which is
about 50 minutes long, here.
Also, watch this short video about what makes a good prompt for Copilot. It is one minute and thirty seconds long.
Please let me know if you have any AI tools, stories, news articles or prompts that
you would like to share.
Marcia
Hello, CIC Community!
Welcome to the inaugural issue of our bi-weekly AI newsletter, where we’ll explore
the exciting world of AI tools. Our first stop? ChatGPT. (GPT stands for Generative
Pre-Trained Transformer.) If you've been curious about AI or looking for ways to streamline
your work, read on!
What is ChatGPT? ChatGPT is an advanced AI language model developed by OpenAI. Think of it as your
very own virtual assistant, capable of generating human-like text based on the prompts
you provide. Whether you need help brainstorming ideas, drafting emails, or even creating
lesson plans, ChatGPT can be a game-changer.
ChatGPT vs. ChatGPT-4o: What’s the Difference? ChatGPT: This free version offers coherent and contextually relevant responses. It’s
great for general use and straightforward tasks. It uses data up to September 2021,
which means it's aware of information, events, and advancements up to that point.
ChatGPT-4o: This is the latest and greatest, boasting improved understanding and generation capabilities.
It handles complex queries with ease, offers more accurate responses, and is better
at understanding nuanced prompts. ChatGPT-4o uses a more extensive and updated dataset,
providing enhanced performance. You also get access to DALL-E image generation and
additional GPTs. Access to GPT-4o requires a monthly subscription fee of $20. It uses
data up to October 2023.
Getting Started with ChatGPT 1. Sign Up for an account 2. Choose Your Model: Decide whether you want to use GPT, which is free, or GPT-4o
which requires a monthly subscription for access. 3. Verify Your Account: After you’ve successfully signed up for ChatGPT, the next
step is to verify your account. 3. Start Prompting: Once you're in, you can start entering your prompts and exploring
what ChatGPT can do.
Formula for Writing a Prompt A well-crafted prompt can make all the difference. Here’s a formula to follow: Identity + Goal + Context + Tone
1. Identity: State who you are or your role. Example: “You are a college instructor
teaching JOUR XXX” 2. Goal: State the Purpose: Define what you want to achieve. Make it specific. Provide
any necessary background information. 3. Context: Break down instructions logically. Why you need it and who is involved. 4. Tone: Describe the tone: professional, casual, witty, friendly, etc. If the prompt does not give you exactly what you want, you will need to refine it.
Attached are example prompts using this formula.
How can you use it? 1. Research: Good for generating literature reviews, summarizing articles, or finding
sources. 2. Teaching: Helps in creating lesson plans, quizzes, and interactive activities for
students. 3. Administration: Assists with drafting emails, organizing meetings, and managing
schedules. 4. Creative: Ideal for brainstorming campaign ideas, writing scripts, or developing
creative content.
Benefits for Faculty and Staff - Time-Saving: Automate repetitive tasks like drafting emails or creating reports. - Enhanced Creativity: Get fresh ideas for projects, campaigns, and lessons. - Improved Productivity: Focus on high-priority tasks while ChatGPT handles the rest. - Access to Information: Quickly summarize research papers or gather information on
any topic. Be aware that ChatGPT can hallucinate, so always verify the sources and
information.
We hope this gives you a solid introduction to ChatGPT and its potential to revolutionize
your workflow. Next time, we'll explore another exciting AI tool, Microsoft Copilot.
Let me know if you have any AI tools that have helped you become more productive.
I’d love to share your story with our colleagues. Stay tuned, and happy prompting!
Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.
