Learning in the Age of AI

Graphic Design WCTC student in a computer lab.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the development of computer systems that learn from vast amounts of data to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence (e.g., pattern recognition, problem solving). Within higher education, AI offers a range of applications that can enhance learning experiences, streamline administrative processes, and provide personalized support to students and staff. This innovative practice explores how Wisconsin technical colleges can leverage AI to enhance innovation and improve educational outcomes.

In all uses of AI, ensure the following:

  • Faculty and staff are at the center of AI use, interpretation and decision-making in accordance with ‘humans in the loop’ recommendations from Department of Education (May 2023 Report).
  • Avoid the input of sensitive information into AI tools.
  • Assess the output of AI tools for misinformation and bias.
  • Follow your college’s AI policies, if available.

AI developments and technology are ever evolving. To ensure your college remains up to date and in-sync with these changes, consider forming a cross-functional AI committee to help align the college’s AI strategy with the mission and goals, identify promising AI applications, assess risks and benefits of AI implementation and create AI policies and guidance.

AI as an Administrative Assistant

AI tools can help college staff with everyday tasks to provide efficiencies, improve the outcomes of developed work products and free up time for staff to focus on directly serving students and solving more complex work tasks. In part one of this innovative practice, we provide guidance on how AI tools can help improve college grant applications and alignment of college policies with external requirements (e.g., state statutes or administrative code, accreditation requirements). Learn more.

Supporting Instructors through AI

Similarly, AI can act as a teaching assistant to help instructors in a variety of ways. In part two, we will provide information on how AI tools can lessen instructor workloads by aiding in developing ancillary materials, improving course accessibility, and crafting feedback on student learning outcomes. Part two will be available in Winter 2024.

Enhancing Student Support with AI

In part three, we will provide direction on leveraging AI to provide personalized student support in navigating student services and improving learning with adaptive AI prompts. We will also learn from our students in a WTCS Voices podcast episode on AI to better understand how our students are perceiving the rapid change of AI and what this means for their educational experience and employment outcomes. Part three will be available in Spring 2025.

For more information, see:

For questions, please contact:

Hilary Barker, State Director of Career & Technical Education

JP Villavicencio, Director of Information Technology Programs and Academic Data Systems

Mandy Johnson, Director of FQAS