Artificial intelligence experts met at the Pitman Center for the University of Idaho’s AI symposium on Thursday, Oct. 29. The event included several workshops for attendees which detailed specific AI programs and technical skills and also provided a general overview of AI and its uses at UI. The symposium also featured President Scott Green, who spoke on the university’s mission towards greater innovation.
Luke Sheneman, the Director of Research Computing & Data Services and developer of MindRouter, spoke about his creation, an AI load balancing software. The software which, among many other functions, allows users to get instant readings on the amount of energy used per AI token.
The keynote speaker was Joel Gladd, the Chair of the Integrated Studies Department at the College of Western Idaho and worked in the field through his incorporation of AI into the classroom. Gladd spoke on the integration of AI into the classroom, and the challenges faculty may face with AI integration.
The keynote speaker was followed by Provost Brooke Blevins who discussed possible challenges that may arise with greater AI integration. This topic continued as the theme of the ensuing panel which covered the opportunities, challenges, misconceptions,and emerging considerations surrounding AI. The panel, which had representatives from academia, including both STEM and social sciences, the private sector and researchers, also gave attendees an opportunity to ask questions and voice their own perceptions regarding AI.
The event concluded with Ben Hunter, the Dean of the Libraries and Chief Data and AI Officer giving an overview of the questions discussed that afternoon as well as the challenges to keep in mind moving forward.
Arman Khachatryan can be reached at arg[email protected]
