ABSTRACT VIEW
EMPOWERING STUDENTS IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: CULTIVATING ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE
J. Prades, F. Silla
Universitat Politècnica de València (SPAIN)
The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ushered in a transformative era, reshaping industries, and redefining the boundaries of what is possible in both science and the humanities. Over the past few years, AI technologies have progressed at an unprecedented rate, integrating into everyday applications and complex professional tasks alike. As AI becomes an integral part of various sectors, it is imperative that educational institutions train students with the necessary skills to harness these tools effectively. This article explores the importance of fostering AI competencies among students and how such skills can enhance their capabilities within their respective future professions.

The correct application of AI offers significant advantages across disciplines. In the sciences, for instance, AI algorithms can analyze vast datasets to identify patterns and make predictions that would be impractical for humans to discern manually. Students proficient in AI can leverage machine learning techniques to accelerate research in fields like genomics, where AI aids in understanding complex genetic interactions and disease mechanisms. Similarly, in the humanities, AI can assist in tasks such as language translation, sentiment analysis, and the digitization of historical texts, allowing for deeper insights and more efficient workflows. For example, students in linguistics can use AI-powered tools to analyze linguistic patterns across different languages, contributing to cross-cultural understanding. In art and literature, AI can help analyze stylistic elements, enabling students to uncover new interpretations of classical works.

Given these possibilities, it is essential for university curricula to integrate AI education across disciplines. This integration should not be limited to computer science departments but should extend to all fields where AI can have a meaningful impact. By doing so, students will develop the competencies needed to not only utilize AI tools but also to understand their underlying principles, enabling them to innovate and adapt as the technology evolves. Courses could include practical training in AI applications relevant to each field, ethical considerations of AI use, and interdisciplinary projects that foster collaboration.

In conclusion, the rise of AI presents both a challenge and an opportunity for education. By fostering essential AI skills, universities can empower students to excel in their fields and meaningfully contribute to the advancements of their disciplines. Embracing AI education ensures that graduates are not only consumers of technology but active participants in shaping the future. As we navigate this new era, it is the responsibility of educational institutions to prepare students for a world where AI is a fundamental component of professional practice and innovation. Failure to integrate AI literacy into education could widen the gap between technological capabilities and human expertise. By doing so, we not only enhance individual career prospects but also drive societal progress through informed and responsible use of AI technologies. Ultimately, equipping students with AI competencies is essential for fostering innovation, promoting ethical considerations, and ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible and beneficial to all sectors of society.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Education, Machine Learning, AI Skills.

Event: INTED2025
Track: Digital Transformation of Education
Session: Data Science & AI in Education
Session type: VIRTUAL