Arts & Sciences Events
[PAST EVENT] Mathematics Colloquium - Gene Roche, W&M School of Education
Access & Features
- Free food
- Open to the public
Generative AI and the Demise of Higher Education
Since the release of ChatGPT-4 in March 2023, companies like OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, and Anthropic have rapidly advanced Large Language Models (LLMs). This wave of powerful AI tools has sparked what Wharton Professor Ethan Mollick calls the “Homework Apocalypse,” as these tools challenge traditional university assignments and assessment methods. Some educators worry that this disruption could compromise the ability of colleges and universities to measure and certify learning, potentially threatening the survival of the institutions.
In this presentation, I will examine the evolution of these models, their potential and limitations for enhancing student learning, and the critical need for faculty to lead in developing innovative teaching methods as these tools become more powerful and embedded in virtually every software package. I’ll conclude with an optimistic view: while higher education faces serious challenges, it can adapt and thrive with innovative faculty leadership.
Bio: Gene Roche is Emeritus Professor of Higher Education at William & Mary, serving for 22 years as Director of Academic Information Services and professor in the School of Education. During his career, he taught courses in emerging technology, research methods, program planning and action research. He also served as visiting scholar for University Libraries and a fellow in the Center for Innovation in Learning Design and received William & Mary's Aceto Award for exceptional excellence to the campus community.
Sponsored by: Mathematics
Contact
Larry Leemis