Artificial intelligence is changing the classroom and Caroline Levander, Rice’s Vice President for Global Strategy, says colleges are the perfect place to lead that transformation. In her new book "InventEd: How An American Tradition of Innovation Can Transform College," Levander argues that higher education has always thrived on experimentation and that AI should be treated as another tool to expand learning.
Speaking with Erie News Now anchor Mark Soliday, Levander noted that when faculty use AI thoughtfully — whether by offloading repetitive tasks or enhancing classroom experiences — it can free up more time for creative, innovative teaching. While concerns remain about cheating and critical thinking, she stressed that the real challenge is learning how to use AI well so that it optimizes student outcomes and enriches the educational experience.