Artificial Intelligence: Empowering Higher Education for Student Success

The Impact of A.I. on Graduation Rates at John Jay College

In recent years, artificial intelligence (A.I.) has gained significant attention for its potential to revolutionize various industries. One area where A.I. has shown promise is in the field of education. At John Jay College, A.I.-powered software has been credited with a substantial increase in the senior graduation rate, jumping 32 percentage points to reach 86 percent. This impressive achievement has prompted a closer examination of how A.I. can assist in supporting students and improving their chances of success.

The Role of A.I. in Identifying At-Risk Students

The software utilized at John Jay College analyzed various factors, such as students’ grades and course choices, to generate a “risk score” for each student. This score enabled academic advisers to identify students who were at risk of dropping out and provide them with extra support, including one-on-one coaching. By identifying approximately 200 students who could benefit the most from additional help, the A.I. software played a crucial role in improving graduation rates.

However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of A.I. in this context. While the software can identify at-risk students and provide valuable data for academic advisers, it cannot fully replace the role of human advisers in understanding the student experience and developing tailored strategies. The software should be seen as a tool to enhance the existing support system, rather than a complete solution to the challenges faced by students.

Tackling the Graduation Rate Crisis

John Jay College’s successful implementation of A.I. reflects a broader issue facing public universities: low graduation rates and prolonged time to degree completion. Across the United States, many students enroll in college but never obtain a diploma, particularly among lower-income students who face additional barriers to success. As a result, public universities, including New York State’s public university system, are adopting various strategies to address this crisis.

One such strategy employed by the State University of New York (SUNY) is the provision of financial support to students, including funds for transportation, textbooks, tuition assistance, and tutoring. This comprehensive approach has already doubled graduation rates for participants at the City University of New York (CUNY) over the past 16 years. These initiatives, in combination with A.I.-powered software, offer a holistic approach to student success.

The Intersection of A.I. and Human Intervention

One of the key takeaways from John Jay College’s experience with A.I. is the importance of striking a balance between technological advancements and the personal touch provided by human advisers. While A.I. can identify at-risk students and streamline certain processes, it is essential for academic advisers to build relationships with students and provide holistic support. The successful application of A.I. at John Jay College demonstrates how technology can complement human intervention, allowing for a more personalized and effective approach to student success.

The Legacy of Benedict Arnold

In a separate, historical context, the New York Times article highlights the ongoing presence of Benedict Arnold in the collective memory of the United States. Known as a traitor for his betrayal of the American forces during the Revolutionary War, Arnold’s actions continue to be a source of fascination and repulsion.

A Symbolic Effigy-Burning in New London, Conn.

The city of New London, Connecticut, where Arnold led a British raid in 1781, has not forgotten his treachery. Every year, a troupe called Flock Theater organizes an effigy-burning event to commemorate this betrayal. Rather than being a vindictive act, this tradition represents a playful and triumphant statement of survival and continuity in the face of adversity.

The Significance of Arnold’s Betrayal

The impact of Benedict Arnold’s betrayal cannot be understated. As the Revolutionary War raged on, Arnold’s decision to align himself with the British dealt a devastating blow to the trust placed in him by fellow soldiers, including George Washington. This act of treason left a lasting impression on the collective consciousness of the American people, raising questions of trust and loyalty that continue to resonate to this day.

The Medal of Honor and a Story of Redemption

Despite Arnold’s infamy, the New York State Museum in Albany will display a medal given to one of the individuals who foiled his plot to surrender West Point. This medal, presented to Isaac Van Wart, highlights the heroism and dedication of those who remained loyal to the cause. Van Wart’s descendants have proudly preserved this symbol of resistance against betrayal.

These stories serve as a reminder of the complexities of history and the enduring power of collective memory. The effigy-burning and the display of the medal both represent different ways in which society processes and commemorates historical events.

Conclusion: Balancing Technology and Humanity

As A.I. continues to evolve and shape various aspects of society, it is crucial to carefully consider its role in education. The success of A.I. at John Jay College in increasing graduation rates underscores the potential of technology to improve student outcomes. However, it is equally important to recognize the limitations of A.I. and the value of human intervention in understanding the unique experiences and challenges faced by students.

Furthermore, the article’s mention of Benedict Arnold serves as a stark reminder of the enduring legacies of historical events and the need to grapple with complex moral questions. The effigy-burning and the display of the medal demonstrate how societies navigate the exploration of their past and the storytelling that accompanies it.

As we embrace the transformative power of technology, it is crucial to maintain a delicate balance between technological advancements and the preservation of our shared humanity. A.I. should be viewed as a tool for enhancing our existing systems rather than a replacement for the crucial role played by human advisers. By acknowledging the nuances of history and upholding the values of empathy and compassion, we can strive for a future that combines innovation with a deep commitment to fostering human potential.