Post 517: AI's Role in Equitable Access To Education at Christian Universities

 

AI’s Role in Equitable Access to Education at Christian Universities
by Yvonne Ho

Summary:
This article explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can help bridge the digital divide in Christian universities, focusing on how AI can offer equitable access to educational resources for underserved populations. Through case studies, the article demonstrates the impact of AI-driven tools in supporting distance learners, first-generation students, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, all while aligning with Christian principles of justice and equality.

The California Department of Education is actively pursuing initiatives that leverage AI to address the digital divide in education. Their "Closing the Digital Divide Initiative" aims to eliminate disparities in access to computing devices and connectivity among students in California (California Department of Education, 2023). AI tools have the potential to improve access for marginalized populations by offering features like language translation for multilingual students, voice typing for students with disabilities, and organizational tools that support executive functioning. For instance, some universities are employing AI-powered chatbots to assist students with navigating admissions, financial aid, and academic advising. Georgia State University found that students who used their AI chatbot were 3% more likely to re-enroll, with the greatest impact seen among low-income and first-generation students (Zhang, 2022).

At Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU), the IT team, including key contributors like Daniel Terrones, Mike Wilday, and George Hanshaw, collaborated with the Nectir platform to create Spark, an AI course assistant. Spark helps students brainstorm essay ideas, comprehend difficult concepts, complete assignments, and receive feedback on essay revisions. Unlike ChatGPT, which pulls information from the internet, Spark is specifically trained using the syllabus, lectures, and open educational resources (OER) textbooks from each individual course. As a result, Spark offers tailored assistance that mirrors the knowledge and teaching style of the professor (Ho, 2024). Deployed across all LAPU courses within just four weeks in Spring 2024, Spark enables every LAPU student to access equitable educational resources, fostering inclusivity.

The name "Spark," coined by Mike Wilday, embodies the idea that AI should ignite students’ imagination and curiosity. Each Spark is uniquely trained for its corresponding course, meaning that a Spark chatbot for an English 101 class cannot assist with assignments from a psychology course. This specialization creates the experience of having a 24/7 virtual tutor, which is particularly beneficial for disadvantaged and first-generation students.

For example, consider a scenario with Joe Doe, a student whose first language is Spanish. He struggles with comprehending his psychology textbook due to language barriers. Joe consults Spark, asking for an explanation of a difficult psychological theory in Spanish. Spark provides the explanation in Joe’s native language, enabling him to keep pace with his peers. Additionally, if Joe needs help translating his Spanish responses into native-level English, Spark can assist, thereby leveling the playing field for Joe, an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) student (Ho, 2024). This aligns with Christian values of equity and fairness.

Similarly, Jane Doe, a native English speaker who dislikes reading, struggles with her psychology coursework. She turns to Spark, requesting an explanation of complex psychological concepts in simple, easy-to-understand language. Spark explains the concepts in a manner relatable to Jane’s life, sparking her understanding and boosting her confidence. With this newfound comprehension, Jane can actively participate in class discussions and feel a sense of belonging (Ho, 2024).

Another example involves Jack Doe, a non-traditional student who works the graveyard shift. When Jack sits down to complete his online assignments at 3 a.m., his instructors are unavailable. However, Jack can turn to Spark, which, unlike a human professor, is always accessible. Spark offers Jack detailed instructions for his assignments in a tone that mimics his professor's, enabling Jack to work at his own pace without the constraints of traditional class hours (Ho, 2024).

Finally, Joan Doe, a student who has consistently struggled with writing, enters her English 101 course with little confidence. When she encounters writer’s block, she uses Spark to brainstorm ideas for her persuasive essay. Through a series of probing questions, Spark helps Joan articulate her thoughts, and together, they craft her first essay. By the end of the course, Joan’s writing has improved, and she develops a newfound appreciation for writing. When Joan expresses concern about losing Spark’s help after the course, her professor reassures her that Spark is available in every LAPU course (Ho, 2024).

In education, AI tools help create more equitable access for underserved students, aligning with Christian values of fairness and justice. By offering personalized learning experiences, AI can assist students who struggle, such as those learning English as a second language, by providing translation services or simplifying complex ideas. This tailored support ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or abilities. Christian teachings emphasize the importance of defending and uplifting the marginalized, as seen in Proverbs 31:8-9, which states, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy" (Proverbs 31:8-9, New International Version). In the same way, AI provides a voice for students who may not be able to advocate for themselves in traditional learning environments.

AI also plays a vital role in supporting students with disabilities, offering tools such as voice typing or text-to-speech to ensure accessibility for all. This focus on inclusion reflects Christian values of unity and equality, as everyone is given a fair chance to achieve their potential. Just as the Bible teaches that we are all equal in God's eyes, regardless of our circumstances, AI ensures that education is accessible to all. Galatians 3:28 reminds us that "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28, New International Version). In this spirit, AI helps bridge the gap, allowing every student, regardless of ability, to participate fully in their education.

For students from disadvantaged backgrounds or those juggling work and family responsibilities, AI's 24/7 availability provides crucial support. Many non-traditional students cannot adhere to regular school hours, but AI allows them to access learning tools at any time, fostering an environment of inclusivity and equity. This flexibility ensures that all students, including those with non-traditional schedules, have equal opportunities to succeed. The Bible encourages us to treat others as we would want to be treated, and Luke 6:31 states, "Do to others as you would have them do to you" (Luke 6:31, New International Version). By offering constant support, AI reflects this principle of fairness and compassion.

Furthermore, AI offers a non-judgmental space for students to ask questions and seek help without fear of embarrassment. This is especially beneficial for students who may feel hesitant to ask questions in front of their peers, allowing them to grow in confidence and understanding. The Bible instructs believers not to show favoritism or discrimination, as seen in James 2:1, which states, "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism" (James 2:1, New International Version). AI creates an inclusive learning environment, treating all students equally and helping them reach their potential without fear of judgment.

Thus, AI supports the marginalized by leveling the playing field, particularly for students from underserved communities. By providing tools that enhance understanding and participation, AI enables these students to succeed alongside their peers, reflecting the Christian call to defend and uplift the disadvantaged. Isaiah 1:17 calls on us to "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow" (Isaiah 1:17, New International Version). In this way, AI aligns with Christian principles by offering underserved students the resources and support they need to thrive in their educational journey.

In conclusion, integrating AI into the classroom helps close the digital divide by providing students with around-the-clock support, particularly benefiting first-generation, ESL, and non-traditional students. AI tools like Spark offer a non-judgmental, always-available resource that enables students to seek help without fear of ridicule. By fostering an inclusive learning environment, AI helps even the playing field, which aligns with Christian values of equity and equality. As Proverbs 3:5-6 suggests, trusting in God and utilizing the tools He provides, such as AI, can help all students succeed in their academic journeys (New International Version, 1978).

References
California Department of Education. (2023). Closing the digital divide initiative. https://www.cde.ca.gov/
Zhang, W. (2022). AI chatbots and student success: Evidence from Georgia State University. Journal of Educational Technology, 35(1), 45-62.