![A futuristic, AI generated image of a smiling person wearing a high-tech helmet with glowing orange and red lights. The background features a sunset with warm colors, blending with the digital effects of the helmet, creating a sci-fi atmosphere.](/sites/default/files/styles/320x180/public/2024-08/powering%20up%20with%20ai%20hero%20image.jpg?h=35559743&itok=fGYvCsoB)
Our Liberal Arts Approach to Artificial Intelligence
Ask ChatGPT for a one-sentence answer to the question: “Should St. Lawrence University, whose mission is to provide an inspiring and demanding undergraduate education in the liberal arts, approach AI with excitement or with skepticism?”
At this point, chances are excellent that if you haven’t already created your own ChatGPT account, you’ve at least heard of the artificial intelligence large language model that has become the topic of much debate since it was released in November 2022.
The tool that can understand and generate text that mimics human conversation is capable of engaging in discussion, answering most any question, writing research papers, and performing a variety of other text-based tasks, including producing sophisticated computer code—all within a few seconds. It also creates images from text prompts.
Like so much of ChatGPT’s responses, this one is impressively—and maybe a bit disconcertingly—smart: “St. Lawrence University should approach AI with a balanced mix of excitement and critical skepticism to fully leverage its potential while addressing its ethical and societal implications.”
AI Lingo to Know
![A group of four people are gathered around a large computer in a modern workspace. Two individuals are seated at the computer, focused on the screen, while another person stands behind them, smiling and observing. A fourth person points at the screen, contributing to the discussion. The workspace has a collaborative atmosphere with a mix of seating, workstations, and an open layout. The computer screens display cartoonish images of spiders wearing top hats, indicating a creative project or discussion.](/sites/default/files/styles/editor_large/public/2024-08/ai%20lingo%20hero.jpg?itok=pUoLYPz9)
With the rise of artificial intelligence, a whole new set of terms has emerged to describe its concepts, capabilities, and ethical considerations. Here are a half-dozen of them, as defined by GPT-4o itself.
Boldly Learning AI Together
![A behind-the-scenes look at an AI video recording session in a library. A person sits in front of bookshelves, facing the camera, while a crew sets up lighting and sound equipment. Several people monitor the recording on screens, ensuring the setup is correct. The atmosphere is professional and focused, with attention to detail in the filming process.](/sites/default/files/styles/editor_large/public/2024-08/learning%20ai%20together.jpg?itok=ooG6XZ6A)
St. Lawrence faculty are leading the way in integrating AI into the classroom, turning challenges into opportunities for critical thinking and innovation. From using AI to generate crisis simulations to teaching students how to collaborate with technology, they're redefining what it means to learn in the digital age.
Read How Faculty are Navigating AI in the Classroom
How Chat GPT Saved Our Disney Trip
![Ronnie Olesker stands with her three kids at Disney. They are wearing Mickey Mouse ears and themed t-shirts. The park is lively, with many visitors in the background, and a brightly lit castle is visible in the distance. The atmosphere is festive and joyful.](/sites/default/files/styles/editor_large/public/2024-08/chat%20gpt%20disney%20trip.jpg?itok=FGtGtDwG)
When planning a Disney trip felt overwhelming, Professor Ronnie Olesker turned to AI for help—and it delivered the magic! Using ChatGPT, she crafted the perfect itinerary, navigating the parks like a pro and making the most of every moment with her family. From avoiding long lines to scheduling the best breaks, AI made what seemed daunting into a dream vacation.
Read How AI Turned a Disney Trip into a Dream Vacation
A Computer Scientists Perspective on AI
![Ed Harcourt and Norah Kuduk sit in a classroom and focus on a large wall-mounted screen displaying a coding interface and a mobile app prototype.](/sites/default/files/styles/editor_large/public/2024-08/computer%20scientist%20ai%20hero.png?itok=hwHeln5y)
Under the guidance of Charles A. Dana Professor of Computer Science Ed Harcourt, students are pushing the boundaries of innovation. From enhancing cybersecurity to creating accessible physical therapy apps, and even classifying sounds with cutting-edge AI, these projects showcase the incredible potential of technology. Yet, Harcourt reminds us that mastering the basics is key—AI is a tool, not a replacement for deep understanding.
Read About Student AI Projects & Classroom Perspectives
Our Real-Life Student Who Inspired an AI Cover Image
![Joshua-Daniel Alleyne, wearing a scarlet polo t-shirt, stands in front of the Sullivan Student Center on Saint Lawrence University's campus.](/sites/default/files/styles/editor_large/public/2024-08/student%20inspired%20ai%20hero.jpg?itok=i9l7vg3R)
Meet Joshua-Daniel Alleyne ’27, an international student from Jamaica majoring in computer science and studio art with a minor in education, and our inspiration for our Summer 2024 AI cover image. For this edition, we envisioned a half-human/half-cyborg portrait of Alleyne, symbolizing intelligence augmentation. But as we explored AI-generated images, we realized the true power of these tools lies in their ability to create entirely new visuals.