The first gathering brought together a small group for what Dunbar described as a lively and thoughtful conversation that could easily have continued beyond the scheduled hour.
A new student-led discussion series is giving graduate students at Concordia a space to think critically and collectively about generative AI and its implications for education.
Generative/Generation AI: Perspectives from a Cohort in Transition held its first session on September 22 as part of the CSLP’s EmpowerGrad programming. Led by PhD candidate and CSLP student affiliate Amanda Light Dunbar, the bi-weekly series invites graduate students to explore GenAI from their overlapping perspectives as students, instructors, teaching assistants and researchers.
Participants explored how large language models interact with economic, political and cultural power structures, and considered what is genuinely new about the current wave of AI, and what may instead be drawing renewed attention to longstanding issues.
The conversation also examined the potential for AI to flatten cultural differences and individuality while, at the same time, creating new opportunities for broader participation.
With a comfortable and enthusiastic atmosphere, the session set the tone for a series designed around open-ended conversation rather than easy answers.
Generative/Generation AI continues every other Tuesday through December 1. Upcoming discussions will provide further opportunities for graduate students to explore questions surrounding AI, education, critical thinking, academic practices and related issues.
If you would like to join the conversation when it resumes on October 6, please sign up here or contact Amanda Light Dunbar.