In a recent episode of the Washington AI Network Podcast, David Marchick, Dean of American University’s (AU’s) Kogod School of Business, joins host Tammy Haddad to discuss the innovative ways AU’s business program is incorporating artificial intelligence into its curriculum. This week, the Kogod School of Business was recognized for its commitment to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) across its curriculum as Best in Class in Business Education for AI by Times Higher Education‘s Poets&Quants.
Throughout the interview at The House at 1229, Marchick explained how Kogod trained its faculty on AI, the limitations of AI in an educational setting, the role of nuclear energy, and how the private sector should help educate decision-makers on AI regulation.
Marchick on integrating AI into the curriculum at AU: “We were one of the first schools in the country to integrate AI throughout our curriculum at the undergraduate and graduate level, in core courses and electives. We want every student that graduates our school to be fluent in AI and to have it on their resume to give them a comparative advantage.”
He further explained the benefits of teaching AI: “We believe that our students will be better prepared than others because we are infusing [AI] throughout the curriculum.”
“We have to train AI to improve on the shortcomings of machine learning, and we teach that.”
The conversation also explored the future of nuclear energy. “Nuclear energy is a safe and effective carbon neutral form of energy that we should use more of in the United States,” said Marchick. “And the efficiency and effectiveness of nuclear energy I think will only increase over the coming years… If you look at the safety record of nuclear and you compare it to any other fuel source, it’s actually much safer.”
When asked about the need for AI regulation, Marchick explained: “Ultimately, this is a new technology that’s going to change the world, and there needs to be some regulation that balances innovation with fairness and safety. Fairness, because AI is inherently biased, and because the technology is so powerful that it can be used for problematic purposes.”
Marchick on the private sector’s role in regulation: “Companies can and should take a leadership role in educating policymakers on both the opportunities and risks of AI. And, obviously, companies will shape it to their benefit…. Companies will always inherently be pushing on the innovation side and less on the safety and fairness side. And every company will have their own view of safety and fairness. Ultimately… Congress and the Executive Branch will have to make those decisions.”
“I think government is a great opportunity both professionally and in terms of fulfillment and having an impact,” said Marchick, discussing the benefits of working in government. “And I think that the more young people can do it. And the skills are transferable, leadership skills are transferable from the government to the private sector, to the media, to any industry, and I think it’s a great thing to do.”
Listen to the full episode on Audioboom, iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts.