Redefining Readiness: Higher Education's Role in an AI World How Higher Education Can Bridge the Gap Between Human Talent and Machine Intelligence for the Workforce of Tomorrow

Author

Paloma Shelton, University of Maine at Farmington

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Education

First Advisor

Steven Pane

Second Advisor

Misty Kreuger

Abstract

As the world changes all around us in the landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI), our educational pathways need to adapt quickly. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the current and future state of higher education, its relationship with AI and technology, and the evolving requirements of the workforce. It outlines the historical progression of higher education since the Colonial Era, emphasizing the need for constant adaptation to societal and economic demands. It reflects how higher education must evolve to equip students with the necessary skills and adaptability for future careers in the digital and AI-augmented landscape. As AI advances and automates routine tasks, the educational system must pivot towards developing soft skills such as decision-making, creativity, and interpersonal abilities. In this paper, a new model is proposed with a layered education path that allows incremental achievements and culminates in a degree that promotes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical, experiential learning.

Comments

HON 499 Thesis or Creative/Service Project

Recommended Citation

Shelton, Paloma, "Redefining Readiness: Higher Education's Role in an AI World How Higher Education Can Bridge the Gap Between Human Talent and Machine Intelligence for the Workforce of Tomorrow" (2024). HON 499 Honors Thesis or Creative Project. 21.
https://scholarworks.umf.maine.edu/honors_theses/21