Empowering Students for the AI Era: Key Skills for Future Innovators at The Hindu AI Summit 2024
Students must adapt to new technology and learn AI skills for industry readiness, according to Revathi Venkataraman, Chairperson of the School of Computing, SRMIST. She spoke at The Hindu AI Summit 2024 in Chennai. Venkataraman emphasized that while core engineering subjects are now using AI tools, engineering professionals should focus on essential skills like creative thinking and problem solving. AI should complement, not replace, these fundamental skills.
In response to a question about AI’s role in various disciplines, Venkataraman noted that Generative AI and design thinking are integrated into all SRM courses. Students engage in hands-on experience through multidisciplinary projects.
Regarding AI ethics, she stated that ethical considerations are included in the curriculum. Students discuss the ethical aspects of their projects and are guided to support sustainable development goals. Both students and faculty utilize Generative AI tools.
– What role do ethical considerations play in AI curriculum development at SRMIST?
Interview with Revathi Venkataraman: Embracing AI for Industry Readiness
Chennai, The Hindu AI Summit 2024 – In a thought-provoking discussion at The Hindu AI Summit, Revathi Venkataraman, Chairperson of the School of Computing at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), shared her insights on the crucial role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and industry preparedness.
Q: Revathi, how essential is it for students today to adapt to new technologies and acquire AI skills?
A: Adapting to new technologies is no longer optional; it’s essential for students to thrive in their future careers. As the workforce increasingly integrates AI, possessing these skills will significantly enhance their industry readiness. However, it’s crucial to remember that while AI tools can aid in understanding core engineering subjects, they should not replace foundational skills such as creative thinking and problem-solving.
Q: You mentioned the incorporation of AI in engineering education. Can you elaborate on this approach?
A: Certainly. At SRM, we are integrating Generative AI and design thinking into all our curricula. This integration allows our students to engage in multidisciplinary projects that offer practical, hands-on experience. Our aim is for students to not only learn the technology but to apply it creatively in real-world scenarios.
Q: How does your curriculum address the ethical considerations surrounding AI?
A: Ethics play a pivotal role in our curriculum. Students are encouraged to discuss the ethical implications of their projects, and we guide them to align their work with sustainable development goals. Understanding the ethical landscape of AI is crucial for developing responsible professionals who can harness technology for positive societal impact.
Q: What are some of the tools and resources used by both students and faculty to learn AI?
A: Both students and faculty actively utilize Generative AI tools as part of their learning process. These tools not only facilitate a deeper understanding of AI concepts but also empower users to innovate and collaborate effectively across disciplines.
Q: At the summit, Srinivasan Ramani mentioned that AI has made knowledge more accessible. What are your thoughts on that?
A: I completely agree with Mr. Ramani. AI’s proliferation has democratized access to knowledge, allowing a broader audience to engage with complex concepts. This accessibility is vital as it prepares everyone—students and professionals alike—to navigate and excel in an AI-driven world.
the integration of AI in education, combined with a solid foundation in essential skills, equips students not only for immediate challenges but also for future advancements in technology, ensuring they remain relevant and effective in their chosen fields. The SRMIST is committed to fostering innovation and preparing students for tomorrow’s workforce challenges.
Earlier in the event, Srinivasan Ramani, Deputy National Editor of The Hindu, remarked that AI has made knowledge more accessible to a broader audience through various applications.
The event was organized by SRM Institute of Science & Technology, with contributions from partners including Sify, the Confederation of Indian Industry, and Tamil Nadu Health Systems Project. It highlighted the importance of equipping students with necessary skills for the future in an AI-driven world.