The university plans to integrate artificial intelligence into curriculum and campus operations to prepare graduates for the workforce through partnerships with companies including Microsoft and Ordify AI.
Mike Egan, Microsoft TechSpark general manager, said in a news release that the initiative “shows how institutions can prepare students to use AI responsibly and effectively, strengthening both the workforce and the regional economy.”
The university defines AI fluency as the ability to use AI tools critically, ethically and effectively, according to the release.
It also means discerning when these tools add value and when they do not. The initiative aims to ensure that human judgment remains the final authority.
"Artificial intelligence isn't an appropriate substitute for learning; it is a tool,” said Matt Cecil, Parkside interim provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, in the release. “At UW-Parkside, we are committed to leveraging these tools where they make sense to advance teaching and learning and enhance the efficiency of our organization.”
As part of the initiative, the university is establishing an AI fluency task force. The group will recommend policies, design professional development programs, identify best practices for classroom integration and recommend training to ensure that students graduate with a competitive edge.
"Equipping our students and workforce with AI fluency directly invests in the economic vitality of Southeastern Wisconsin," Chancellor Lynn Akey said in the release. "By training our graduates to use AI ethically and effectively, we provide regional employers with the high-level talent they need to remain competitive. This initiative extends our mission to serve as a catalyst for growth, ensuring our region leads technological shifts with integrity and vision."
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