Tackling AI Challenges in the SBCC Classroom and What it Can’t Replace
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - A professorial message, "The Power of Human Language in the Age of Generative AI" reigned for 55 minutes at Santa Barbara City College's 44th Annual Faculty Lecture Thursday afternoon.
Dr. Kimberly Monda, Ph.D., who's taught English, Composition and Literature at SBCC for decades, wrote and delivered this year's prestigious address about the impacts artificial intelligence (AI) has had on students in recent years as it transformed from the front-lines of tech and deeper into academia.
"I made the decision that I wanted this lecture to reflect my lived experience as an instructor here for 31 years and the world's changed a lot in that time. And right now the way it's changed, the generative AI has invaded all areas of our lives."
The professor, a married mother of two, would know.
Monda admits AI is a powerful tool but not "relevant" at this particular stage as teenagers and young adults are learning, analyzing and developing critical thinking skills. Curriculum changes include a shift toward writing more in the classroom.
"The "human" is emphasized because AI imitates humanity by sorting through endless texts and situations and juxtaposing that information with what we've asked it. It's incredibly powerful."
She touched on the unknown for those who become reliant -- either intellectually or emotionally. Monda referenced teens turning to ChatGPT for emotional support or, more. And, stressed the need to be "more careful."
Monda is adamant that AI cannot replace the power of human language which, she says, shapes our reality, our sense of self and, our development. That critical communication link starts at birth and continues.
"It's about that response in the moment. It's words but it's also emotions and energy and what your eyes send to somebody else."
None of which AI can offer, at any stage in life.
Monda, who is retiring this year, credits her colleagues and the "great" work they're doing as they assess the ethical use of AI.
"Schools are an incredibly important area for resistance to the corporate spread of artificial intelligence," said Monda. "We need to think about what we really value in humanity and the use of language as humans."
