SD Board of Regents announces AI plans amidst skepticism among Gen Z

The South Dakota Board of Regents has outlined strategic objectives for integrating AI into the state’s public universities, emphasizing responsible use and preparation to meet workforce demands.
Their approach focuses on five core components: governance and infrastructure needs, curricular and programmatic impacts, optimization and utilization of agentic AI, research, and development of AI literacy and fluency among students, faculty, and staff.
There is a mix of excitement and skepticism surrounding AI, with recent polls showing declining enthusiasm among Gen Z, suggesting the need for balanced, ethical education on AI.
The University of South Dakota, particularly the Center of Teaching and Learning, has made significant progress in implementing these core components, especially in developing AI literacy.
Mandie Weinandt from the University of South Dakota stresses the importance of teaching AI as a useful tool rather than a crutch, and the necessity of understanding both its benefits and potential downsides.