Transforming Government Operations: Practical Ideas from Real Practitioners

N.D. Information Technology Team

• Jason Anderson
• Jill Baber
• Jessica VanNeste
• Md Alauddin Choudhury
• Isaac Trottier
• Sam Unruh
• Michael McCrory

The influx of sensationalized information about AI can be overwhelming, but the public and our stakeholders expect rapid deployment of AI solutions to solve a myriad of problems. This round table session brings together ND’s Automation and Data Science teams to collaborate and ideate practical applications of these fields within state government and similar entities. We will consider actionable use cases as well as the unique challenges that AI deployment in government can introduce. The format will be a dynamic question-and-answer session aimed at fostering interactive dialogue and sharing insights.  

Navigating the AI Era: Skills, Collaboration and Workplace Dynamics

• Dr. Harun Pirim, NDSU Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

First, we will explore “Skills for the AI Era,” highlighting the competencies needed for individuals to excel. As automation and AI technologies reshape job roles, adaptability becomes paramount. For example, professionals and academics need to constantly update their skills to leverage AI tools effectively. Additionally, we will emphasize the importance of ethical decision-making in guiding AI development and deployment, ensuring these technologies align with societal values. To this end, university curriculums must integrate courses on AI ethics, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and continuous learning methodologies.  

 Next, we will examine “Human-AI Collaboration.” Effective collaboration between humans and AI systems is key to maximizing their combined potential. This section will cover strategies for leveraging the unique strengths of both parties, such as AI’s data processing capabilities and human intuition and empathy. For instance, in healthcare, AI can assist with diagnostic processes, while doctors provide the nuanced understanding and compassionate care that machines cannot. We will present practical examples and frameworks for fostering synergistic partnerships that achieve shared goals, suggesting that current science and engineering disciplines incorporate more human-centric AI design principles into their programs.  

Finally, we will investigate “Workplace Dynamics and Organizational Culture” in the context of AI integration. The impact of AI on job design, employee roles, and organizational culture is profound. For example, AI can enhance employee well-being by automating mundane tasks, allowing workers to focus on more meaningful and creative endeavors. We will analyze how AI is transforming industries like manufacturing, where collaborative robots (cobots) are becoming common, and propose solutions to create a positive and resilient workplace environment. This necessitates a redesign of university curriculums to include more experiential learning opportunities, such as internships with AI companies and project-based courses that reflect real-world AI applications.  

Limitations of AI and Automation

• Isaac Trottier
• Michael McCrory, N.D. Information Technology Robotic Process Automation Team

In the age of rapid technological advancements, organizations face the critical challenge of determining when to utilize automation and artificial intelligence (AI) and when to rely on human intervention. This presentation aims to explore a framework for making these decisions, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and ethical considerations are upheld.  

The decision to automate or rely on human expertise depends on several key factors, including the complexity of tasks, the necessity for creativity, the requirement for empathy, and the potential for ethical implications. This presentation will help identify best practices and criteria that organizations can adopt to make informed decisions.  

Demystifying AI: The Pivotal Role of Data Literacy

• Jill K. Baber, N.D. Information Technology Data & Science Analytics Team
• Jason Anderson, N.D. Information Technology, AI and Automation

As we rapidly advance into an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), the necessity for a data-literate population has never been more critical. This presentation will explore the fundamental importance of data literacy, emphasizing how it empowers individuals and organizations to make informed, responsible decisions in a world increasingly influenced by AI technologies. We will cover: how data literacy is crucial in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their technical background, can engage with and benefit from AI advancements; how data literacy bridges the gap between complex AI systems and the public, fostering a culture of transparency and trust; and how data literacy also plays a vital role in mitigating biases within AI systems, as a well-informed populace can better recognize, question, and address potential disparities. By equipping society with the skills to critically assess and interpret data, we enable more equitable access to the benefits of AI, ensuring that its transformative power is harnessed for the common good.  

Teaching & Learning Languages & Culture in the Age of AI

• Dr. Christie Cole, Assistant Professor of Spanish
• Dr. Melissa Gjellstad, Professor of Norwegian and Department Chair
• Dr. Thyra Knapp, Associate Professor of German Studies

Faculty from the University of North Dakota’s Department of Languages and Global Studies will host an interactive panel discussion on teaching and learning global languages and cultures in the age of artificial intelligence.  These faculty members, who represent three different languages and cultures taught at UND, have been considering ways in which artificial intelligence can be utilized by students and faculty alike to improve learning outcomes and prepare for employment in the workforce.  

 How can this powerful new technology be deployed to expand our worldview and pedagogical capabilities in a meaningful way?  Is it possible that this perceived threat to traditional educational structures could, paradoxically, act as a springboard to inspire creativity, empathy, and the kind of intercultural competencies that make us human?  Drs. Cole, Gjellstad and Knapp propose a panel discussion centered on these questions, in hopes of sharing both general and specific considerations of how North Dakota’s institutions of higher education can not only acknowledge the impact of artificial intelligence on teaching and learning but use it to prepare our students for a global future.   

 The discussants will first engage the audience to gather their impressions of possible/perceived uses and abuses of AI in the classroom.  From there, each faculty member will share their concerns and corresponding pedagogical plans for dissuading students from the utilization of AI in some situations and encouraging it in others. This panel will be of interest not only to educators but also to anyone concerned with how artificial intelligence will impact the way we prepare the next generation to plan, build, create, and care for our North Dakota communities and citizens moving forward.  

AI Distruption: An Opportunity for Human Enhancement

• Emily Cherry Oliver, Professor of Theatre, UND
• Tami Carmichael, Professor of English, UND
• Anna Kinney, Writing Center Coordinator, UND

The rapid pace of Artificial Intelligence development is drastically changing how society functions and how we view and value humans. Its impact is perhaps greater than any other technological development in its potential for change and disruption. Historically, these global disruptors, such as the printing press or nuclear capabilities, have fallen into two categories: those that negatively shape human existence and those that are harnessed to enhance it. In this panel, we will discuss the need to move beyond approaches to AI that focus on the technical aspects of AI development and view AI as an expedient tool for replacing human-based activities. This approach is limiting and dangerous. We wish to broaden and flip this perspective by emphasizing the human skills of collaboration, interdisciplinary perspective-making, and creativity as key to more effectively harnessing and using AI capabilities. We will argue against allowing AI to displace or shape our humans but, instead, for using our uniquely human skills to harness and apply AI in ways that promote – not replace – our strongest human abilities.  

Specifically, this three-person panel from UND’s Initiative of AI and Human Innovation, will use evidence-based arguments to address issues of the emerging trends of AI replacement of humans in education, the workplace, and entertainment industries. We will advocate for flipping our narrative of human – AI interaction, emphasizing how the human skills of collaboration and perspective-taking can lead us to partner effectively with AI in the creation of stronger, more equitable educational practices, more robust work-place environments, and more inclusive and unique artistic endeavors. A Q&A session will be included.  

In the 45-minute panel each member will bring a unique perspective to the discussion of a human-centered approach to AI. Professor Oliver, a theatre scholar will discuss the impact to the Arts and the potential for inclusion. Ms. Kinney an expert in writing and AI will explore pedogeological principals to incorporating AI in the classroom. Professor Carmichael, a scholar in interdisciplinary studies, English, and Theatre will connect the dots between research and the classroom to explore how the disruption of AI can expand our potential if utilized ethically.  

AI in Action: Transforming Workplaces with Intelligent Tools

• Marlo Anderson, global speaker, futurist, and entrepreneur

This presentation explores the transformative power of AI in modern workplaces. It covers practical ways to leverage AI to enhance productivity, drive innovation, and improve decision-making processes. From automating routine tasks to providing insights through data analysis, AI is reshaping the way work is conducted. The discussion also addresses the broader implications of AI adoption, including its potential to create new job opportunities and the ethical considerations involved. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of AI’s current capabilities and future potential, along with actionable strategies to implement AI tools effectively in their organizations. 

Opportunities and Pitfalls: the Ethical and Responsible Use of AI for Teaching and Learning

• Stacy Duffield, director of Office of Teaching and Learning, NDSU
• William Grube, founder of Gruvy Education

Join Dr. Stacy Duffield, Director of the Office of Teaching and Learning at North Dakota State University, and William Grube, founder of Gruvy Education, to explore the ethical challenges of using AI for teaching and learning. This session will dive into the appropriate and inappropriate use of AI for educators and learners, the limits of AI detectors, and crafting policies for using AI. We will also explore strategies for teaching 21st-century skills, creating AI-resistant assignments, and integrating AI responsibly into classrooms. 

We will examine the potential side-effects of AI, both positive and negative, through questions like, “What does it mean for learners to trade off the zone of proximal development for ease of access to knowledge creation?” and “How does AI contribute to misinformation?” This session will spark important discussion and enhance understanding of AI’s responsible and ethical use in education. 

Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) and Nursing Education

• Carey Haugen, Master of Science in Nursing Coordinator, Mayville State University

The technology of artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved over the past decade from choosing and following algorithms (learning and reasoning AI processes) to creative AI processes that generate new material.  This rapid growth of generative AI has created excitement and concern for education. The proposed presentation would focus on the skills and competencies needed for individuals, including faculty and students, to utilize GenAI efficiently, effectively, and ethically. Presentation topics would include responsible and ethical use of AI, writing AI prompts, and teaching/learning strategies using AI.   

This aligns with the conference theme of Skills for the AI Era as it will explore the skills and competencies needed for individuals to successfully incorporate GenAI. The intended audience for this presentation would be researchers, industry professionals, leaders, policymakers, educators, and students. The presentation would include lecture with the use of slide technology and active participation with attendees by utilizing engaging questions, demonstrations, and examples. Objectives of the presentation include to identify key concepts of generative AI; explore the adaptability and creativity of AI learning experiences, examine AI teaching and learning strategies.   

It is crucial that individuals are equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to utilize generative AI efficiently, effectively, and ethically.

Will Rosie Replace the RN? Robotics in Nursing

• Mary Beth Johnson, Associate Professor of Nursing, University of Mary

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies have been utilized in healthcare for decades, assisting professionals in diagnosing, treating, and communicating with patients.  AI technology has exploded greatly in recent years to include robotic surgery and the ability to trend data, thus leading to improved patient outcomes.  There is tremendous potential in expanding AI technology but also substantial challenges that require ethical, financial, and professional consideration.  Healthcare professionals care for people; the nursing profession meshes art and science to provide caring behaviors such as presence, touch, listening, and coming to know the patient. A humanoid robot that assists in lifting and turning patients has been utilized in Japan in elder care for the past two decades.  But can this “hugging” robot provide the caring behaviors we all crave and need?  This presentation will discuss the ongoing nursing shortage, AI technologies currently being used in healthcare, evaluate potential concerns with newly emerging AI technology, and share insights into the healing power of caring behaviors.   

Nursing Student and Faculty Perception of Generative AI ChatBot Compared to Human Written Response

Crafting Custom GPTs to Empower Human-AI Collaboration

• Anna Kinney, Writing Center Coordinator, UND

This presentation will focus on the potential of custom GPT models to leverage the power of generative AI while ensuring human creators maintain oversight, creative control, and focus on specific outcomes. It introduces what custom GPTs are and the basics for creating one, emphasizing how these tailored AI models can be designed to address specific tasks and objectives. The session will highlight the importance of designing interfaces that foster meaningful human-AI interaction, rather than replacing human connections. By exploring examples in education, research, and professional development, participants will see how custom GPTs can enhance learning, support creativity, and foster collaboration. The presentation will also address potential challenges and ethical considerations, offering guidelines for responsible use. Attendees will leave with resources to continue exploring and potentially build their own custom GPTs. All are welcome to attend this session, as getting started with custom GPTs does not require significant technical expertise.

AI & Accessibility

• Lacey Long, Research Associate, North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities

How do people with disabilities use technology to access digital content? The number of people with disabilities is estimated to be 15% of the global population (approximately 1 billion people). Dr. Lacey Long, Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist (CATIS) and Consumer Advisory Council (CAC) Member for ND Assistive, will present information on how artificial intelligence (AI) technology can improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities.  

 Dr. Long will define and share examples of assistive technology (AT) and explain how these programs and products can be utilized in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI), specifically for individuals who are blind or have low vision, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, individuals who have physical disabilities or mobility needs, and/or individuals who have learning differences or cognitive disabilities. She will also share information on ADA (the Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines for state and local government agencies about the accessibility of web content and share resources for accessibility training, with a focus on using plain language and the four principles (POUR) of web accessibility. 

The Use of AI in Data Analytics

• James Sorenson, University of Mary

In this presentation, we delve into the transformative impact of conversational AI models like ChatGPT on data analysis and data science. These sophisticated tools are reshaping how we extract insights, automate processes, and make decisions, significantly enhancing productivity and fostering innovation. I will share my personal experience with utilizing ChatGPT to design and implement predictive analytics models. Specifically, I’ll demonstrate how this technology assists in overcoming language barriers commonly encountered by data professionals transitioning between SQL and more complex programming languages like R or Python.  

ChatGPT has proven indispensable in simplifying the complexities of data manipulation and analysis.  By utilizing a tool, such as ChatGPT, I have been able to refine my limited R knowledge by interacting with the AI and translate my “wants and desires” into commands in R.  However, the adoption of conversational AI models does not replace the need for education or understanding of data analytics, it merely allows someone to refine scripts and functions to achieve the final goal.  AI tools may not provide fully functional scripts or code snippets, requiring human intervention to correct syntax errors or refinement of the dataset to accommodate the generated code.  

Furthermore, we will discuss the management of privacy concerns when handling confidential information. Emphasizing the importance of understanding the data privacy policies of AI tools is crucial for ensuring the security of sensitive data. The session is designed to familiarize attendees with the practical uses of AI tools like ChatGPT, highlighting the necessity of critical human oversight.  

We will address the limitations of AI-generated code or scripts, which, while not providing complete solutions, serve as valuable guides in achieving desired outcomes. By understanding these tools’ capabilities and boundaries, data professionals can better navigate the complex landscape of AI-assisted data science, ensuring data security and project success.  

(This abstract was partially written and reviewed by ChatGPT)  

AI Out of the Shadows

• Dr. Serena Pontenila, Assistant Professor, Business Information Technology Department, Minot State University
• Dr. Nathan Anderson, Director of Institutional Assessment, Minot State University

The presentation explores shadow technology, security considerations for generative AI, and considerations for safely and securely implementing generative AI in business processes to avoid the misuse of the technology. The misuse of generative AI can pose risks to organizations including data exposure or misinformation. An absolute ban on popular generative AI tools can add to security stress. Security stress can lead employees to rationalize information security policy (ISP) infractions and adopt shadow information technology (IT). Shadow IT is the use of unapproved technology by a department or individual without the knowledge of IT or the security group within the organization. The use of Shadow IT can lead to gaps in security due to data being stored in unknown locations, not understanding how data is used or routed in unapproved applications, or applications not meeting general security. To avoid the use of generative AI tools, such as Chat GPT, as shadow technology, organizations should consider analyzing how to implement the tools in a meaningful way that helps employees reach their goals. These considerations include identifying users, use cases, processes that may be affected, data that may be used through a systematic assessment of needs using the A+ Inquiry framework. The A+ Inquiry framework explores the following: absorbing the request, asking questions, accumulating information, accessing information, analyzing the data to answer questions, announcing findings, and applying the information to create a policy for generative AI that allows the safe use of the tool. The policy should clearly define users’ responsibilities and acceptable use of the tool. The goal is to create an organizational culture that uses generative AI tools to benefit the organization while preserving applicable data privacy guidelines. The intended audience is business leaders interested in security and in implementing generative AI solutions.