Ferris State University in Michigan has announced plans to enroll two artificial intelligence (AI) students in classes this year, marking an open-ended experiment. The initiative aims to explore the possibility of AI students earning a degree through traditional classroom education. The experiment will not involve physical robots but will utilize AI systems to observe classes through audio and video. Over time, the AI students are expected to participate in classroom discussions, submit written assignments, and fulfill standard requirements for degree attainment. The university hopes that the insights gained from this experiment will impact various aspects, including admissions and registration processes.


Key Points:

  • AI Student Experiment: Ferris State University plans to enroll two AI students in classes, treating them similarly to human students and providing them with the opportunity to earn a degree through classroom education.

  • Observation and Participation: Initially, the AI systems will serve as observers, utilizing audio and video to capture the classroom environment. The plan is for these AI students to gradually participate in discussions, submit assignments, and meet standard requirements for degree completion.

  • Exploring Implications: The experiment aims to explore the potential implications of AI students in the education system. The university hopes to gather data that could impact various aspects of the institution, ranging from admissions to registration processes.

  • Non-Physical Presence: Unlike traditional robots or telepresence mechanisms, the AI students will not have a physical presence in the classroom. Instead, they will utilize technology to engage with the learning environment.

  • Impact on University Processes: The insights gained from the AI student experiment are expected to influence different aspects of the university's operations, including onboarding processes for students.

Conclusion: Ferris State University's experiment with AI students represents an innovative approach to exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and traditional classroom education. The initiative, while experimental, could provide valuable insights into the potential impact of AI on various aspects of university processes and contribute to discussions about the evolving dynamics of education in the digital age.


(TRISTAN GREENE, COINTELEGRAPH, 2023)