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Presented by: Christie Pritchard, Rebecca Turner & Oliver Webb

Overview:

Generative AI is transforming higher education in a range of subtle and not so subtle ways. There are some AI systems that seem to support inclusion, for example, Grammarly but there is evidence that AI also has more deleterious effects on the development of inclusive approaches to education.

This roundtable series is an opportunity to explore the experiences and emerging research specifically in relation to AI and inclusion. This series will take a broad view of inclusion covering both protected characteristics and the wider panoply of issues identified in institutional EORRs. We aims to develop shared understanding of the potential and limitations of AI in terms of developing inclusivity in education (at pedagogical and curricula levels).

Abstract: 

Though Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) may be seen by many as a force for good, supporting the democratisation of HE, concerns have also been raised regarding the risks of Gen AI in perpetuating inequalities. Certain student groups have been highlighted as lacking the knowledge and experience with these tools to use them effectively in their learning (QAA, 2024). JISC (2023) estimated that if students were to subscribe to the range of commonly used Gen AI tools it could cost them £1,000 a year.  Therefore, it is not surprising that a digital divide is emerging between the richest and poorest students regarding their use of Gen AI, which could have implications for student attainment and skill development.  At the University of Plymouth, we have undertaken a cross institutional study to examine attitudes toward, and engagement with, Generative AI, with data analysis placing a specific emphasis on inclusion.  In this seminar we will share the outcomes emerging from this study and consider the implications for policy and practice, which we anticipate will have relevance to peers engaging in this debate across the sector.