OpenAI backed by Microsoft has entered into a strategic partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). The collaboration marks a departure from OpenAI’s traditional engagements with technology and media companies signalling its commitment to fostering AI advancements in the educational landscape.
Under the terms of the agreement, ASU will gain access to ChatGPT Enterprise which is a specialized version of the widely-known chatbot developed by OpenAI. This enterprise-grade variant boasts enhanced features including heightened security, privacy measures and accelerated access to OpenAI’s cutting-edge technology. The partnership aims to harness the capabilities of AI to assist students and faculty in their academic endeavours.
The announcement follows initial concerns within academic circles when OpenAI launched ChatGPT. The technology with its remarkably human-like responses sparked worries about potential misuse. ASU however embraces the evolving role of augmented and artificial intelligence systems in education.
“ASU recognizes that augmented and artificial intelligence systems are here to stay, and we are optimistic about their ability to become incredible tools that help students to learn,” commented ASU President Michael Crow highlighting the university’s positive outlook on integrating AI into the learning experience.
OpenAI’s venture into the realm of education builds upon its previous collaborations with entities such as the American Journalism Project and news publisher Associated Press. The strategic move aims to learn from ASU’s expertise and contribute to expanding the impact of ChatGPT within higher education.
Brad Lightcap, Chief Operating Officer at OpenAI expressed the company’s eagerness to collaborate with ASU and work towards enhancing the influence of ChatGPT in higher education. Starting in February, ASU will initiate an open challenge inviting faculty and staff to submit innovative ideas for the best use of ChatGPT in an educational context.
Crucially ASU reassured that OpenAI would not utilize data from the university for training its models. The privacy and security of prompts submitted by faculty and staff during the open challenge will also be a top priority.
As the partnership unfolds, the collaboration between OpenAI and ASU represents a significant step in leveraging AI to enrich the educational experience providing a glimpse into the potential advancements that lie ahead in the intersection of artificial intelligence and academia.
