As AI booms, Mercer professors provide their take on the technology –

Mercer University has a strict policy on generative AI use in classrooms, but opinions among professors vary substantially.
Engineering department professors and those in data science use AI in research, and Mercer offers a master’s program in data science.
Some faculty, like English professor Deneen Senasi, argue that AI exploits writers and artists without proper compensation or consent for training data.
Conversely, Computer Science Co-Chair Andy Digh sees AI as an incredible teaching tool and promotes its responsible use.
Psychology Assistant Professor Doyle Tate is strongly against AI use in classrooms, asserting that it hinders learning and critical thinking.
Professors like Senasi are adopting methods to prevent AI use, including banning digital output and requiring physical writing methods.
Despite differing views, all professors agree on the fairness of Mercer’s adaptable policy regarding AI.
Digh uses a red-yellow-green light metaphor to illustrate acceptable AI use, aligning with Harvard Graduate School of Education’s advice.