News/Education
AI alignment efforts hope to safeguard human values
MIT Senior Audrey Lorvo is conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of AI safety, economics, and computer science to ensure artificial intelligence systems remain beneficial and reliable as they become more sophisticated. Academic foundation and focus: Lorvo's unique combination of computer science, economics, and data science studies, complemented by her role as a Social and Ethical Responsibilities of Computing scholar, provides a multifaceted perspective on AI development. Her research specifically examines the potential for AI to automate its own research and development processes She focuses on understanding both technical and socioeconomic implications of self-improving AI systems Through the AI Safety Technical...
read Feb 2, 2025AI gun detector fails to prevent Nashville school shooting
A Nashville school district's $1 million investment in AI gun detection software failed to prevent a fatal shooting at Antioch High School, highlighting significant limitations in the technology's real-world application. The incident and system failure: A tragic shooting at Antioch High School on January 22, 2025, resulted in two deaths and one injury, despite the presence of Omnilert, an AI-powered gun detection system. The 17-year-old shooter was positioned too far from surveillance cameras for the system to identify the weapon One student was killed and another wounded before the shooter took his own life The gun remained undetected by the...
read Jan 31, 2025Microsoft, CoreWeave invest $72M to build New Jersey AI Hub
Microsoft and Princeton University are partnering with CoreWeave and New Jersey state officials to launch a $72 million AI Hub in Princeton, New Jersey, focused on research, innovation, and workforce development. Key details: The New Jersey AI Hub represents a significant public-private partnership aimed at fostering regional economic growth and advancing artificial intelligence development. The initiative brings together Microsoft, CoreWeave (a cloud infrastructure provider), Princeton University, and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority The hub will be physically located on Princeton University's campus Total investment from all partners exceeds $72 million Core offerings: The AI Hub will serve as a...
read Jan 30, 2025Top US art school adopts AI in groundbreaking partnership
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) has formed a pioneering partnership with Invoke, an AI company providing enterprise-grade generative media tools, giving students access to advanced AI-powered creation software. Partnership Overview: RISD's collaboration with Invoke represents the first major alliance between a prestigious art school and an AI image generation company. Students gain access to Invoke's premium suite of AI-powered creation tools, which are typically reserved for enterprise clients Invoke, a remote company founded in 2024 with nine employees, provides both free public versions and specialized enterprise solutions The partnership originated through RISD professor Daniel Lefcourt, whose work focuses on...
read Jan 30, 2025MIT students push boundaries of human-AI teamwork
Students from MIT's Interaction Intelligence course showcased innovative human-AI collaboration projects at the 2023 NeurIPS conference, demonstrating new ways for artificial intelligence to enhance creative expression and learning. Event Context; The 38th Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS) conference in Vancouver attracted over 16,000 attendees to witness cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The projects emerged from MIT course 4.043/4.044 (Interaction Intelligence), taught by Marcelo Coelho in the Department of Architecture The course explores large language objects and how AI can extend into physical applications The conference served as a prestigious venue for showcasing these innovative student projects Project...
read Jan 28, 2025How AI can boost STEM education in underfunded schools
The integration of generative AI in STEM education presents a potential solution for addressing systemic funding gaps and educational disparities in U.S. public schools. Current state of STEM education: The United States faces significant challenges in STEM education, ranking 28th out of 37 OECD countries in mathematics and 12th in science. Math scores have fallen by 13% since 2018, indicating a concerning downward trend in STEM performance STEM occupations are projected to grow at more than twice the rate of other occupations The number of blue-collar workers has increased since the pandemic, while school closures have become more frequent Funding...
read Jan 27, 2025Philadelphia school leaders to get AI literacy training from Penn
The Philadelphia School District is partnering with the University of Pennsylvania to launch "Pioneering AI in School Systems," a comprehensive AI training program for educators starting March 2025. Program overview: This pioneering initiative will provide specialized AI training for district administrators, principals, and teachers to effectively integrate artificial intelligence tools in Philadelphia's public schools. The program, fully funded by the Marrazzo Family Foundation, aims to establish best practices and identify potential challenges in AI implementation Training will be tailored to different roles, with central office administrators focusing on strategic planning and policy, principals learning about school-level implementation, and teachers receiving...
read Jan 25, 2025$1M AI gun detection system fails to prevent fatal school shooting
A $1 million artificial intelligence gun detection system at Nashville's Antioch High School failed to detect a weapon involved in a fatal school shooting incident. The incident details: A tragic shooting at Antioch High School in Nashville resulted in the death of a 16-year-old student and injuries to another, with the 17-year-old shooter subsequently taking his own life. The shooting occurred in the school's cafeteria where a student managed to bring in a concealed weapon The AI-powered detection system, provided by Omnilert, did not identify the weapon before the shooting The system later activated when police entered the building with...
read Jan 25, 2025Hybrid intelligence: Balancing human agency and AI innovation for a smarter future
The International Day of Education 2025 shined a spotlight on the intersection of artificial and natural intelligence, calling for a balanced approach that safeguards human agency while harnessing the transformative potential of AI. As AI systems increasingly reflect the values and intentions of their creators, the day emphasized the importance of fostering both AI literacy and human-centered intelligence to ensure technology amplifies humanity's highest aspirations rather than exacerbating societal inequalities. The central premise: AI systems reflect and amplify the data, intentions, and behaviors of their human creators, making it crucial to understand and cultivate natural intelligence alongside artificial intelligence. The...
read Jan 23, 2025LSU expert predicts AI’s impact on Louisiana economy
LSU business professor Andrew Schwarz discusses artificial intelligence opportunities in Louisiana, highlighting recent developments and the state's potential for growth in the AI sector. The big picture: Louisiana has attracted significant AI-related investment, with Meta and Hut 8 planning major data centers that promise to create thousands of jobs and potentially spark new tech ventures in the state. Meta's data center project will generate 1,500 construction jobs and 500 permanent positions in Richland Parish Hut 8 is investing $2 billion in a data center planned for West Feliciana Parish These facilities are expected to attract additional technology companies and foster...
read Jan 23, 2025Survey: Higher ed leaders believe today’s students aren’t prepared for AI
A new survey from the American Association of Colleges & Universities and Elon University reveals significant concerns among higher education leaders about students' readiness to effectively use artificial intelligence tools. Key Survey Details: The study gathered insights from 337 university administrators regarding the impact of generative AI technologies on their institutions and students. 53% of leaders indicated that spring 2024 graduates are "not very prepared" to use AI effectively Only 1% believed their graduating students were "very prepared" for AI implementation The survey revealed a stark contrast between faculty and administrator AI adoption, with 83% of leaders using AI tools...
read Jan 23, 2025Take a picture of your hardest homework problem and this AI mobile app might help you solve it
SpeedTutorAI, a new AI-powered learning assistant app for iOS devices, offers comprehensive educational support through photo-based problem solving and lecture transcription capabilities. Product Overview: SpeedTutorAI Premium combines advanced AI technology with practical learning tools to help students master various academic subjects. The app enables users to photograph homework problems for step-by-step solutions across multiple subjects including algebra, calculus, chemistry, and grammar Built-in lecture recording features provide AI-powered transcription and automatic summarization capabilities An interactive AI tutor component offers real-time assistance and explanations for complex topics Technical Requirements and Accessibility: The platform is exclusively designed for Apple's mobile ecosystem with specific...
read Jan 22, 2025New Jersey universities launch program to host international AI entrepreneurs
New Jersey universities will host international entrepreneurs with AI expertise in a novel program combining academic roles with startup development opportunities. Program Overview: The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education has selected the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and William Paterson University to host foreign entrepreneurs under the Global Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIR) pilot program. The program provides H-1B visa pathways for international entrepreneurs who will serve in part-time academic positions Participants will engage in research, teaching, and student mentoring while developing their tech startups The initiative specifically focuses on generative artificial intelligence development and innovation Key Institutional...
read Jan 22, 2025These universities just formed a consortium to integrate AI skills into college curriculums
Eight leading educational institutions have formed a consortium to integrate AI skills into college curriculums through experiential learning programs. The initiative overview; Complete College America, Riipen, and five public colleges across different states are collaborating to embed AI-focused experiential learning into academic programs. The consortium includes Atlanta Metropolitan State College, City Colleges of Chicago, City University of New York, Cuyahoga Community College, and Pikes Peak State College The participating institutions represent both community colleges and four-year universities focused on accessible education The collaboration aims to create a scalable model for other institutions to incorporate AI competency into their programs Program...
read Jan 22, 2025Arizona charter school to launch AI-led grade school curriculum
Virtual learning in Arizona is set to transform with Unbound Academy, a new charter school launching in fall 2024 that will leverage AI applications to deliver core academic instruction in just two hours daily. The innovative approach: Unbound Academy implements a unique "2 Hour Learning" model that combines AI-driven core instruction with interactive workshops and mentorship. The school will initially serve 200 students in grades 4-8, with potential growth to 800 students Students engage in four 25-minute AI-powered learning sessions daily, focusing on math, science, language, and reading The remaining four hours of the school day are dedicated to workshops,...
read Jan 21, 2025AI agents are coming for higher education — here are the trends to watch
AI agents - autonomous tools with enhanced decision-making capabilities beyond traditional chatbots - are being deployed across higher education institutions to handle administrative tasks and support learning. Key developments: AI agents are emerging as the next evolution in educational technology, building upon the widespread adoption of generative AI tools in academia. These agents can operate independently, making decisions based on available information rather than requiring specific user prompts Over 100 institutions have partnered with companies like CollegeVine to implement AI agents The technology is being used for student recruitment, course support, and administrative tasks Practical applications: Higher education institutions are...
read Jan 21, 2025Samsung unveils AI-powered interactive classroom displays
Samsung has announced a new interactive classroom display called WAFX-P, which runs Android 15 and incorporates AI features similar to those found on Samsung Galaxy phones. Product Overview: The WAFX-P is a touch-enabled display designed specifically for educational environments, featuring stylus support and various AI-powered tools. Available in three sizes: 56-inch, 75-inch, and 86-inch models Features a 4K camera and powerful internal hardware with 16GB of RAM and a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) Runs on Android 15, marking a significant integration of mobile operating system features into classroom technology Key AI Features: Samsung has adapted several of its smartphone...
read Jan 21, 2025New York Governor targets workforce development for Micron’s semiconductor facility
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a $252 billion state budget that includes free community college tuition for adults pursuing degrees in high-demand technical fields, particularly targeting workforce development for the semiconductor industry. Key initiative details: The proposal aims to address workforce shortages in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, with a particular focus on supporting Micron Technology's planned $100 billion semiconductor facility in Clay, New York. The program would cover tuition, fees, books, and supplies for students aged 25-55 without existing college credentials Eligible fields include advanced manufacturing, technology, engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, construction, green energy, teaching, and healthcare...
read Jan 19, 2025AI talent exodus threatens academic research future
The growing divide between academic and private sector AI research threatens the future of foundational AI development as universities struggle with insufficient resources and talent retention. Current state of affairs: Universities are experiencing a significant decline in their ability to conduct cutting-edge AI research due to resource constraints and talent migration to the private sector. Academic institutions lack access to the massive-scale GPU computing infrastructure necessary for frontier AI research Private companies now produce the majority of powerful AI systems, creating a significant power imbalance The public sector's ability to develop AI systems serving the public interest is being undermined...
read Jan 18, 2025Pew: ChatGPT now helps more than a quarter of teens with homework
A new Pew Research study reveals a dramatic increase in teenage use of ChatGPT for schoolwork, with usage doubling from 13% to 26% between 2023 and 2024 in the United States. Current usage trends: Students are showing distinct preferences for how they employ AI tools in their academic work, with varying levels of perceived acceptability. More than half of teenagers (54%) consider using ChatGPT for research purposes to be acceptable Math problem-solving with AI garnered approval from 29% of teens Essay writing using AI tools received the lowest approval rating at 18% Global AI adoption in education is significantly higher,...
read Jan 18, 2025Mayo Clinic and Mesmerise are using AI-powered digital humans to train healthcare professionals
Mayo Clinic and Mesmerise have partnered to create NeuRealities, a new venture that combines AI and immersive technologies to transform medical education and healthcare training. Key partnership details: Mayo Clinic's clinical expertise will be integrated with Mesmerise's AI and spatial computing capabilities to create advanced training solutions for healthcare professionals. The collaboration is founded on an exclusive worldwide agreement giving NeuRealities access to Mayo Clinic's extensive medical knowledge and expertise The platform combines AI-powered digital humans with adaptive learning environments to create personalized educational experiences Initial efforts are focused on developing CT training programs for radiologic technicians Technical innovations: NeuRealities...
read Jan 18, 2025Utah startup uses AI to resurrect Anne Frank for Holocaust education
A controversial AI-powered simulation of Holocaust victim Anne Frank is being used in select schools, drawing criticism for its approach to Holocaust education. Key context: Anne Frank's diary serves as one of the most significant first-hand accounts of the Holocaust, documenting her experience hiding from Nazi persecution before her death in a concentration camp at age 15. The AI simulation, developed by Utah-based SchoolAI, attempts to recreate interactive conversations with a virtual Anne Frank The technology appears to use OpenAI's language models as its foundation, exhibiting similar characteristics to other AI chatbots Critical concerns: Berlin historian Henrik Schönemann's testing of...
read Jan 16, 2025Stanford HAI’s global training initiatives educate policymakers on AI governance
Stanford HAI has developed comprehensive AI education programs for government officials at state, federal, and international levels to enhance AI governance capabilities. Program Overview: Stanford's Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI) has established itself as a leading force in AI governance education through various boot camps and training initiatives. The institute recently hosted 35 California policymakers for a one-day AI boot camp focusing on foundation model governance and AI's impact on education HAI collaborates with other Stanford institutes, including the Institute for Economic Policy Research and the Regulation, Evaluation and Governance Lab Programs are designed to reach different levels of...
read Jan 16, 2025Adobe, General Assembly announce AI skills program to train millions in India
Adobe and General Assembly have announced the launch of their Creative Skills Academy in India, starting February 25, 2025, as part of a global initiative to train 30 million learners in AI skills by 2030. Program Overview: The Creative Skills Academy in India represents a significant expansion of Adobe Digital Academy's global training initiatives, offering free virtual training in AI-powered marketing skills. The program will provide hands-on experience with tools like Adobe Express Participants will receive career coaching, personal branding guidance, and portfolio development support through General Assembly Training is fully sponsored by Adobe and offered at no cost to...
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