Changing Higher Ed AI Integration in Higher Ed Curriculums: How Kogod Did it in Six Months
In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed podcast, Dr. Drumm McNaughton talks with David Marchick, Dean of American University's Kogod School of Business, and Angela Virtu, Professorial Lecturer in IT & Analytics at American University’s Kogod School of Business, about their rapid integration of artificial intelligence across the entire business curriculum in just six months. They discuss the urgency of AI in higher education, Kogod's implementation strategy, and valuable lessons for other institutions.
Key Discussion Points
The Urgency of AI in Higher Education:
- Recognition of AI's growing importance in the business world
- Need for AI literacy as an essential skill for future business leaders
Kogod School of Business's Rapid AI Integration:
- Formation of a committee to develop an actionable plan within six weeks
- Comprehensive approach: integrating AI into every major, developing new courses, creating AI certificates, and implementing faculty training
Strategic Steps for Rapid AI Implementation:
- Development of two types of AI-integrated courses: Artisan and SAGE
- Appointment of an AI Faculty Teaching Fellow to support the initiative
Overcoming Challenges in AI Adoption:
- Balancing speed of implementation with quality and relevance
- Supporting faculty adaptation to new teaching methods and content
- Keeping pace with rapid AI developments
- Incorporating ethical considerations alongside technical skills
Student-Centric Outcomes:
- Cross-disciplinary integration of AI across all business majors
- Practical applications of AI in various business disciplines
Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders:
- Act Decisively: Quick action is crucial in the face of technological change.
- Embrace a Cross-Disciplinary Approach: Integrate AI across all majors to benefit all students.
- Invest in Faculty Development: Provide resources and training for successful AI integration.
Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Higher Education
- Plans for continued refinement and expansion of AI curriculum
- Hiring additional AI faculty and developing advanced AI courses
- Expanding industry partnerships and exploring cross-pollination opportunities
About Our Podcast Guests
David Marchick is the Dean of the Kogod School of Business at American University, supporting over 2,000 students in over two dozen programs. He leads the committee for Kogod’s AI curriculum overhaul, an initiative focused on integrating AI into every major to prepare students for the global marketplace. Previously, Marchick was COO of the U.S. Development Finance Corporation, overseeing investments to produce 2 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses for developing countries. He spent 12 years at the Carlyle Group, where he served on the firm's Management Committee.
Angela Virtu is a Professorial Lecturer in IT & Analytics at American University’s Kogod School of Business. She teaches courses on technology, data analytics, machine learning, and coding. She’s also the AI Instruction Faculty Fellow, organizing training on AI developments for faculty and staff. Previously, she developed AI and ML solutions that combined theoretical advancements with practical, ethical applications for organizational integration and business impact.
About the Host
Dr. Drumm McNaughton is the founder, CEO, and Principal Consultant at The Change Leader, Inc. A highly sought-after higher education consultant with 20+ years of experience, Dr. McNaughton works with leadership, management, and boards of both U.S. and international institutions. His expertise spans key areas, including accreditation, governance, strategic planning, presidential onboarding, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances. Dr. McNaughton’s approach combines a holistic methodology with a deep understanding of the contemporary and evolving challenges facing higher education institutions worldwide to ensure his clients succeed in their mission.