AI Literacy Day at Texas A&M Highlights AI’s Growing Role in Higher Education
Workshops and expert-led panels during AI Literacy Day at Texas A&M examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping teaching, learning and research across campus.
Texas A&M students engage with staff from the University Libraries during the student resource fair at AI Literacy Day.
James Blevins, Division of Academic Affairs
From hands-on workshops to expert-led panels, AI Literacy Day at Texas A&M University on March 27 presented faculty, staff and students opportunities to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming higher education.
The all-day event, held in conjunction with National AI Literacy Day, included six sessions focused on using AI to enhance teaching, spark creativity and improve efficiency across campus.
AI as a learning tool
A central focus of the day was aimed at education on how artificial intelligence can deepen student learning.
Steven Yang, a junior business major, discusses how the Aggie Data Science Club uses AI in its projects with event attendees.
James Blevins, Division of Academic Affairs
It started with a student resource fair in Evans Library highlighting the many ways Texas A&M has embraced artificial intelligence, including investments in infrastructure, policy and education.
Attendees explored how the University Libraries have integrated AI tools, how organizations like the Aggie Data Science Club are applying AI in student-led projects and how academic programs, such as Mays Business School’s AI in Business minor, prepare students to use the technology within their field of study.
“I’m still a bit pessimistic about AI, but it’s not going anywhere,” said Steven Yang, a junior business major. “There’s no reason not to learn how it works and how I can use it for my future. In the end, I know I will be more well-rounded for knowing it.”
Yang’s perspective was common throughout the day. While student, faculty and staff opinions on artificial intelligence vary wildly, understanding how to use it is becoming increasingly essential for academic success, according to Associate University Librarian Stephanie Graves.
“AI is rapidly becoming part of the academic experience, and Texas A&M is committed to helping our students, staff and faculty use it intentionally as it becomes increasingly embedded in the academic experience,” said Graves “Those who learn to engage with these tools thoughtfully are better positioned to succeed, and that familiarity strengthens teaching, learning and research across industries.”
Teaching with AI
In the classroom, faculty are beginning to explore AI as a tool in the teaching process and are working to fully understand its complexities and limitations.
The Center for Teaching Excellence’s session “Building AI Literacy for Faculty” to discover the ways generative AI can be used effectively in the classroom.
James Blevins, Division of Academic Affairs
“It’s an unknown area, but it presents meaningful opportunities to expand learning and understanding,” said Angie Hill Price, an associate professor in the College of Engineering’s Department of Engineering Technology and Industrial Distribution. “I had thought of how I would incorporate this into my industrial welding processes course and was able to do a quick test drive from what I learned in the session.”
Rather than simply adopting AI tools, instructors are working to integrate them in ways that enhance learning without undermining critical thinking or academic integrity.
Discussions throughout the event had attendees cautiously optimistic about AI with faculty and students seeking clear expectations and guidance on when AI use is appropriate. Other sessions focused on incorporating AI into coursework and guidance on selecting the correct AI models for specific tasks.
“I found the learning session I attended to be extremely useful with concise and effective instruction that addressed concerns and explained the university’s AI interface, TAMU AI Chat,” said Price. “It’s nice to know Texas A&M is playing an important role in teaching and educating its community to use these tools effectively and responsibly.”
Learn more about how Texas A&M is using artificial intelligence to transform education, research and operations while prioritizing responsible and ethical use.
