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Under the leadership of Provost Francis Doyle, Brown University is intensifying its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) through interdisciplinary initiatives and the development of comprehensive policies governing AI’s role in academia. This strategic direction aims to integrate AI into various facets of university life, ensuring that its adoption aligns with Brown’s educational values and ethical standards.

Interdisciplinary AI Initiatives

Provost Doyle has articulated a vision for AI that transcends traditional departmental boundaries, fostering collaboration across disciplines to harness AI’s potential in addressing complex societal challenges. A cornerstone of this effort is the Data Science Institute (DSI), which serves as a hub for AI research and education at Brown. The DSI engages the university community by:

• Educating in Data Fluency: Offering programs that enhance data literacy among students and faculty, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate a data-driven world.
• Stimulating Multidisciplinary Research: Encouraging collaborative projects that apply data science methods to diverse data modalities, fostering innovation across fields.
• Promoting Equitable AI Applications: Ensuring that AI technologies are leveraged to create a more equitable society, reflecting Brown’s commitment to social responsibility.

In alignment with these goals, Brown has launched an online Master’s Degree in Data Science with a focus on policy and governance. This 16-month program is designed to equip students with the technical expertise and ethical frameworks necessary for responsible AI development and implementation. As Suresh Venkatasubramanian, interim director of the DSI, emphasized, the program addresses the critical need for AI governance by integrating technical skills with an understanding of AI’s societal impacts. 

AI Policies in Coursework

The integration of AI into academic settings has prompted important discussions about its appropriate use in coursework. Faculty members are actively developing policies to guide students in the ethical and effective use of AI technologies. For instance, the Sheridan Center for Teaching and Learning provides resources to help instructors establish clear guidelines on AI usage, emphasizing academic integrity and responsible engagement with AI tools. 

Individual faculty members have also crafted specific policies for their courses. Professor Monica Linden, in her course “Neurobiology of Love,” encourages creative use of AI while cautioning against over-reliance that could impede learning. Similarly, Professor Tara Nummedal’s syllabus for “Nature, Knowledge, Power in Early Modern Europe” outlines boundaries for AI use, permitting experimentation within the classroom but prohibiting AI-generated content in graded assignments to uphold academic standards. 

Future Directions

Brown University’s commitment to AI is further exemplified by initiatives like the Humanity Centered Robotics Initiative (HCRI), which explores the societal implications of robotics and AI. HCRI engages in public lectures, research, and community outreach to foster a deeper understanding of human-machine interactions. 

As Brown continues to advance its AI agenda, the university remains dedicated to fostering an environment where technological innovation is balanced with ethical considerations, ensuring that AI serves as a tool for enhancing education and addressing societal needs.

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