Rethinking AI and Inquiry in Higher Education: A Briefing

This briefing analyzes a blog post by Jarek Janio titled "Do Submarines Swim? Rethinking AI and Inquiry in Higher Education," published on the COACHES website. The post explores the role of AI in education, arguing that its strength lies in data processing, not human-like thinking. Janio emphasizes the crucial role of faculty in guiding students toward inquiry-based learning, utilizing AI as a tool to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Main Themes:

1. AI as a Predictive Engine: AI excels at analyzing vast amounts of data to predict outcomes. However, it lacks the intrinsic curiosity and purpose that drive human cognition. As Chomsky's submarine analogy illustrates, AI's ability to operate in an environment (like answering questions) doesn't equate to possessing the qualities of human thought.

"AI’s capacity to scan data and produce seemingly coherent answers should not be confused with thinking in a human sense. Rather, these outputs are generated according to parameters set by programmers and prompted by individuals."

1. Shifting from Answers to Inquiry: Traditional teaching often focuses on delivering fixed information. Janio argues for a learner-centered approach where students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by formulating their own questions and exploring real-world problems.

"The more impactful path lies in guiding learners to pose their own questions, especially around authentic, real-world problems that demand critical thinking and creative solutions."

1. Faculty as Architects of Inquiry: AI doesn't replace educators; it enhances their role. Faculty become crucial in guiding students to evaluate sources, construct arguments, and develop effective inquiry strategies. They foster collaboration, mentorship, and critical engagement with AI-generated content.

"Educators guide students to evaluate sources, weigh competing arguments, and frame their own questions effectively, tasks that extend beyond straightforward retrieval of information."

Key Ideas and Facts:

• AI tools like ChatGPT rely on human prompts and operate within frameworks defined by developers.
• Meaningful learning stems from active curiosity and student-driven inquiry.
• AI can be leveraged to practice critical thinking by analyzing its strengths and limitations.
• Faculty are essential in shaping an AI-infused learning environment that prioritizes inquiry, creativity, and problem-solving.

Conclusion:

Janio reframes the conversation on AI in education, urging a shift from focusing on whether AI "thinks" to how it can be used to foster inquiry and critical thinking. He advocates for a pedagogical approach where AI serves as a tool for exploration and problem-solving, with faculty guiding students towards deeper engagement with knowledge and the development of essential skills for an AI-rich world.