Lagos State University Embraces AI Use To Enhance Learning

The Lagos State University (LASU) South-West Nigeria, has joined the global University community to embrace the use of Artificial Intelligence AI to advance the learning process.

According to the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the need for Staff to keep pace with the rapidly emerging technological landscape within the University environment to enhance productivity becomes imperative.

The University recently released an AI driven conservation module in their Plagiarism Detection Software ‘The LASU GetITRight’.

Professor Olatunji-Bello, said technology is a game changer in the education sector and must be used responsibly to upscale learning and adaptation to the global trends.

The Professor while speaking at the opening session of a 2-day training on Artificial Intelligence for staff from all cadre in the University emphasised the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements to remain relevance in the academic sphere.

She said “In today’s digital age, it is imperative for educators to embrace emerging technologies as tools for innovation and advancement. By leveraging these technologies effectively, we can revolutionize teaching methods, streamline administrative processes, and foster a conducive learning environment for our students.”

“The participants here must preserve LASU as a global brand, and key into emerging technologies in order to remain relevant among other universities of repute.”

Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof Adenike Boyo, the Vice Chancellor maintained that LASU’s proactive approach to the adoption of technology underscores the University’s commitment to stay at the forefront of educational innovation, empower its staff members to navigate the complexities of the digital age and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

Prof. Olatunji-Bello said “Even as Vice Chancellor, I have also had some AI classes in order to be up to date in these new realities, even at the National level, Nigeria University Commission, NUC has commenced educating University Administrators on the prospects, features and the areas of caution as regards AI.”

Also Read: Lagos State Trains Teachers on Methodology Skills 

Training practicalities

The training coordinated by the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology of the University, focused on the use of Microsoft Copilot as a working companion.

Lead trainer and Director ICT, LASU, Prof Oluwatoyin Enikuomehin, engaged participants on the practicalities of the AI tool through several Lab sessions including how AI-powered tools and algorithms could automate routine tasks, analyse large datasets, and generate valuable insights to support decision-making processes with emphasis on ethical considerations and responsible usage to mitigate potential risks associated with AI implementation.

Exposed gaps

The Ag. Dean of Allied Medical Sciences of the University, Prof. Babajide Balogun.also expressed concerns about the technology tool, which he noted has exposed gaps in the conventional ways of teaching students, saying that the method of teaching, examining and testing must change.

Prof. Balogun cited the instance of the ability of AI to report XRay films much faster and better than human, saying the development could be an issue around job prospects for experts in that area.

Curbing usage 

Other participants who were introduced to the fundamentals of AI technology and its practical applications in academia, appreciated the University for the opportunity to take part in the training, in view of the dynamics brought into the work processes by Artificial Intelligence.

They identified disadvantages of the tool particularly in the teaching profession while agreeing that there is a need to curb inappropriate usage of the technology tools.