Speaker
Description
The development of AI is transforming all the core activities of higher education institutions (HEIs), with its risks and opportunities manifesting at different scales depending on the context. As AI evolves rapidly, understanding its impacts is also constantly developing, yet discussions can be challenging due to the overlap of technological, ethical, societal, economic, and practical perspectives. Moreover, distinguishing between short-term effects, temporary or solvable changes, and long-term challenges remains difficult.
The AITO Framework (AI in Innovation, Research, and Education), developed by CSC – IT Center for Science, is a tool designed to help higher education institutions navigate the AI-driven transformation. Shaped through joint discussions with Finnish HEIs, the framework provides a structured approach to understanding how AI impacts the core functions of universities – research, education, partnerships, and support services. It covers changes of different scales and time spans.
The AITO Framework can be used in multiple ways to guide and enrich discussions within HEIs, networks, and among different stakeholders as they reflect on AI’s impact and manage the change. It serves as a reference point for strategic planning and supports deeper conversations about the sustainable use of AI in the future.
This lightning talk will offer a brief introduction to the framework and consider the potential role of National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) in facilitating joint discussions and training on AI-driven change in HEIs, its management, both nationally and across borders.
