University combines AI with educational tech

Shandong University of Finance and Economics has introduced the country's first specialized artificial intelligence model for higher education and teaching in the social sciences, marking an advance in educational technology, the university said.

The model uses AI technology to tackle long-standing challenges, such as the disconnect between theoretical learning and practical application.

"It facilitates the generation, accumulation and sharing of knowledge data across a spectrum of disciplines including economics, management, literature, law, science, engineering, education and arts," said Jia Haiyan, dean of the School of Public Administration and Policy at the university.

For example, its training module works with government bodies, organizations and enterprises to tailor scenario-based workshops for practical training within professional domains, and the system furnishes real-time guidance for students engaged in remote internships and training activities.

Moreover, teachers can leverage the model to gain insights into students' progress and tailor personalized development plans accordingly.

"Students pursuing degrees in public affairs management, who previously had to physically visit government offices to grasp insurance procedures, can now gain comprehensive insights into the intricacies of insurance operations through the virtual environment facilitated by the AI model," she said, adding students have also enhanced their understanding and proficiency in various subjects through interactive engagements with the model.

Jia said several universities and colleges have expressed interest in utilizing and developing the AI model.

"Widespread adoption of the AI model will continuously enrich the model, enabling it to provide increasingly accurate responses to user prompts," Jia said.

The AI model is a collaborative research and development effort between the university and enterprises.

In the upcoming fall semester, the school will offer the general course Introduction to Artificial Intelligence to all freshmen. The initiative aims to enhance students' proficiency in leveraging artificial intelligence to address challenges within their respective fields and foster adaptability and creativity in intelligent environments, said Hong Junjie, president of the university.