In a thought-provoking presentation hosted by the Fulbright Learning Community, faculty from the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences came together to explore the transformative potential — and ethical complexities — of artificial intelligence in higher education. This session offered an opportunity for faculty to share how they are integrating AI into their classrooms in ways that foster creativity, critical thinking and career readiness while balancing the conversation with questions about ethical use and accountability.

"I appreciated learning about the many ways educators are using AI in their teaching. Hearing from speakers across different disciplines was especially inspiring, as each brought a unique perspective on how AI can support student learning. It was also a meaningful reminder of the importance of using these tools thoughtfully and ethically in our classrooms," Aelim Kim, assistant professor of art education at the U of A.

Speakers represented a variety of Fulbright disciplines and shared their unique approach to AI.

Kathleen Condray, professor of world languages, literatures and cultures, described how students in her German classes use character-based AIs as career coaches to practice technical vocabulary for job interviews, as tour guides to explore cities abroad and as game partners to sharpen critical thinking and creative language use.

Margaret Butcher, teaching associate professor of communication, emphasized the importance of guiding students to use AI for critical cultural analysis. Through targeted assignments, she helps students engage with diverse concepts in art and media.

Jeff Lewis, associate professor of biological sciences, shared his journey from trying to "AI-proof" his classes to embracing AI as a pedagogical ally. Lewis noted that "Students who can responsibly use AI are going to be at an advantage, so I have been modeling appropriate and ethical use, while highlighting the major limitations."

Shanda Hood, teaching associate professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences, presented an assignment that integrates AI into mathematics learning. Her approach supports students in developing fluency with mathematical language, engaging meaningfully with content and reducing anxiety around in-class presentations.

Throughout the session, faculty emphasized the need to balance innovation with integrity. Lynn Meade, teaching associate professor and Fulbright Learning Community facilitator, said, "As AI tools become more prevalent, educators are working to ensure students not only learn how to use them but also how to question them — developing the discernment and ethical grounding needed to thrive in a complex world."

Participants in the session were given a copy of the book Teaching with AI: A Practical Guide to a New Era of Human Learning by C. Edward Watson and José Antonio Bowen. Meade noted, "Faculty success helps create student success. As Fulbright College embraces the future of education, its faculty remain focused on what matters most: preparing students to serve and to lead with creativity, responsibility and purpose." The Fulbright Learning Community, a pilot faculty development initiative, is designed to strengthen teaching effectiveness, encourage collaborative engagement and promote student success. Sessions like this one serve as a catalyst for collaboration and student-centered innovation.

The event reflected Fulbright College's mission as a vital public good, committed to providing a transformational education that prepares all students to lead and thrive in a complex world.