This article summarizes the efforts of the Tennessee State University (TSU) in preparation for the state’s digital workforce and communities by through the mission of the TSU Smart Innovation Technology Center (TSU SMART Center), which is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to promoting digital literacies, inspiring SMART connected innovations, and providing education technology skills across the spectrum of education (kindergarten to life-long learning) and all disciplines. (Tennessee State University SMART AI Center, n.d.-a).

Table of Contents

  I. Abstract
 II. The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education
III. Tennessee State University’s SMART AI for ALL Research Innovation Center
IV. Tennessee State University’s Faculty and Staff AI Fellows
 V. Conclusion and Recommendations

Abstract

Higher education plays a critical role in the development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). As AI becomes increasingly embedded in various fields and applications, colleges and universities must proactively prepare students and faculty for a future shaped by automation and data. Broad perspectives in AI design and deployment are essential, prioritizing all avenues of AI creativity from the start for more responsible innovation. Equipping faculty with culturally responsive teaching and assessment strategies will better engage all students in STEM and inspire innovative thinking.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education

As AI reshapes the landscape of teaching and learning, educators need continual support to stay current with emerging and evolving AI tools and best practices in research. Professional development programs should equip instructors with effective strategies for guiding students in the proficient use of technology, fostering open-minded discussions, and cultivating essential skills, such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and collaborative work with machines. AI-powered tools, like adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and automated grading, offer significant potential to personalize education and enhance accessibility. Additionally, interdisciplinary AI programs and certificates can help align curriculum with industry demands. By collaborating with business leaders and tech professionals, colleges and faculty can develop cutting-edge coursework that prepares graduates for a workforce increasingly shaped by AI.

Tennessee State University’s SMART AI for ALL Research Innovation Center

The Tennessee State University (TSU) SMART Innovation Technology Center (Tennessee State University SMART AI Center, n.d.-c) is paving the path in piloting and evaluating AI tools and techniques. The TSU SMART Center’s mission is to identify, test, and scale AI tools that enhance education. For example, researchers are piloting the Arrighi AI Utilization Scale of Conveniences to Competencies (Arrighi, n.d.) to help educators gain comfort and skills with classroom AI. The Melton Educational Prompt rubric metric (Melton, n.d.) aids the design of open-ended questions AI can provide feedback on to stimulate higher-order thinking. These types of initiatives can ensure both students and instructors reap the benefits of artificial intelligence.

The TSU SMART Center implements more than one AI method to ensure a comprehensive approach to developing AI prompts in higher education. One method is the PAC it UP AI Framework (Horton, n.d.) that guides TSU’s research work. PAC it UP instructs users to prompt, access, and cite their AI sources transparently to ensure safe and appropriate uses of AI in academics. Another method applied is ASCEND (Hassell, n.d.), which assesses an AI tool’s alignment with active, student-centered learning for comprehensive AI prompts in education. When used together, these methods offer the potential to not only effectively integrate AI into the classroom but also build a robust digital infrastructure. If successful, these methods could serve as national models for using technology to improve educational quality.

Tennessee State University’s Faculty and Staff AI Fellows

TSU is at the forefront of advancing AI through innovative programs, such as its AI Fellows initiative (Tennessee State University SMART AI Center, n.d.-b). Launched in 2022, the AI Fellows program provides professional development and resources for TSU faculty and staff to explore practical applications of AI in teaching, research, and campus operations. AI Fellows can request release time and research stipends. All AI Fellows are given access to leading AI development platforms to experiment with their tools, such as intelligent tutoring systems and advising chatbots, and work with industry partners to align curriculum to address the impact of AI.

Recognized as valuable scholarly contributions, the AI Fellows’ progress advances TSU’s commitment to excellence in applied AI research. Through ongoing pilot projects, they continue to identify ways to streamline operations and improve learning outcomes with thoughtful, evidence-based applications of intelligent systems. These AI initiatives are making personalized and transparent learning more widely available. By helping shape a future with broader opportunities for students, TSU’s Smart AI Center is driving progress through collaborative, community-focused efforts.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Colleges should champion workplace policies that recognize the creative potential of faculty and staff. AI technologies must be developed and used responsibly, paying close attention to educational best practices. Higher education institutions have a responsibility to advance teaching methods through research on effective and ethical AI integration in the classroom. By cultivating a broad range of perspectives across student bodies, faculty, and partnerships, institutions can contribute to meaningful progress in developing a skilled AI workforce and advancing innovations. With thoughtful leadership, the applications of artificial intelligence can be harnessed to serve the broader interests of society.

As powerful engines of economic growth and drivers of ongoing innovation, universities are uniquely positioned to promote AI talent and drive discovery. By conducting AI research and testing new applications across campus operations and academic programs, institutions can identify ways to streamline administration, enhance learning outcomes, and build strategic partnerships. However, to fully harness these opportunities and address potential challenges, colleges must cultivate AI literacy across all disciplines. As critical thinkers and community leaders, universities have a duty to help society maximize the benefits of AI and mitigate its risks. Establishing interdisciplinary AI programs and supporting local communities in making informed technology choices through public engagement and lifelong learning initiatives will be essential. By embracing these roles, colleges and universities can lead the way toward a more informed and innovative future.

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