The Pros and Cons of Generative Artificial Intelligence Use in Student Affairs
Since the release of Chat GPT in November 2022, I have kept a close watch on how generative artificial intelligence (AI) might impact my work in academic conduct. So far, it hasn't been significant. The use of AI overall in student affairs offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance the student experience and administrative efficiency. One of the primary advantages is the ability of AI to provide personalized support to students. AI-driven chatbots can offer 24/7 assistance, answering common questions about campus resources, enrollment, financial aid, and more. This can improve accessibility and ensure students receive timely information, even outside of traditional office hours. AI can also analyze student data to identify those who may be at risk of academic or personal challenges, enabling early intervention by student affairs professionals. This proactive approach can lead to improved student retention and success rates.
There are also challenges associated with integrating generative AI into student affairs. A key concern is the potential for depersonalization of student services. While AI can handle routine inquiries, it may not be equipped to address complex or sensitive issues that require human empathy and understanding. Over-reliance on AI could reduce face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for building meaningful relationships between students and staff. Furthermore, the implementation of AI systems requires significant investment in technology infrastructure and ongoing maintenance, which may strain the budgets of student affairs departments. Ensuring data privacy and security is another critical issue, as the use of AI involves the collection and processing of sensitive student information. Balancing these pros and cons is essential for leveraging AI in a way that enhances, rather than detracts from, the overall student experience.
Rob Bishop
Reference:
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat