Generative AI

AI Tools for Publishing, Guest Lecture, University of Witwatersrand

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I recently presented a guest lecture for postgraduate students on how artificial intelligence is changing educational publishing.

Here’s the lecture introduction by Laetitia Cassells, Head of Division:

While the legal debates around copyright continue in the ongoing adaptation to AI, especially significant in South Africa as part of larger copyright and access debates, we can lose sight of the empowerment possible with technological advances – if properly disseminated and utilized. You can review the recent webinar on AI and the Law from the Mandela Institute at Wits here for more information: https://youtu.be/zDJLRbV8HPw 

This Wednesday Cambridge University Press and Assessment joins us again on the Wits Publishing program, when we host Niall McNulty, currently a publishing manager at their Cape Town office. 

Niall has extended his interest and background as a digital publisher into the AI revolution through engaging in generative content tools, from additional support for authors developing materials to apply assessment, to assisting content producers with prompt generation guidelines. 

When AI is discussed it is often discussed as a challenge to the traditional operation of publishers like CUP&A and others – Niall reminds us of the most significant contributions an AI can provide publishers, and how to empower yourself as a content intermediary by using AI as support. 

Here’s the lecture:

Educational Chatbots

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Educational chatbots are becoming increasingly popular in the education sector due to their ability to provide quick and personalised services to students and institutional employees. These conversational bots with specialised training are transforming the way educational institutions and companies share necessary information and lead conversations. They can facilitate learning by providing students with course content, assignments, rehearsal questions, and study resources instantaneously.

In recent years, chatbots have emerged as powerful tools in various industries, including education. This article will explore the use cases of educational chatbots, their benefits, and challenges, and provide real-life examples of chatbots helping in the learning process. It will also discuss the future of educational chatbots and their potential to transform the education sector.

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Teaching Media Literacy and ChatGPT at Schools: Why It Matters

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Teaching media literacy has become increasingly important in today’s digital age, where information is easily accessible and can spread rapidly. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the recent release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, educators are faced with the challenge of preparing students to be critical consumers of information.

ChatGPT, a chatbot that can generate human-like responses to text prompts, has sparked concerns over its potential use in academic dishonesty. However, it also presents an opportunity for educators to teach media literacy skills, such as evaluating sources and detecting bias. By incorporating ChatGPT into classroom activities, students can learn to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources of information, as well as develop a deeper understanding of AI technology.

Schools have a responsibility to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate the complex media landscape of today’s world. Teaching media literacy and AI literacy, with the help of tools like ChatGPT, can help students become more critical thinkers and better prepared for the challenges of the future. As AI technology continues to advance, it is crucial that educators stay up-to-date and adapt their teaching methods to ensure that students are well-equipped for the digital age.

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