Presentation Summary
Generative AI (artificial intelligence) is transforming higher education and with it the professional roles and administration that support it. In automating complex tasks, generating high quality content, and providing data-driven insights, generative AI can empower professionals to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness. For information professionals and IT specialists, who may be early adoptors on their campuses of innovations such as generative AI tools, there also presents risks whether it be data security and privacy, information provenance and reliability, and ethical challenges such as biases and transparency. Increasingly, the environmental impact of generative AI is also a consideration for institutions examining their sustainability footprint.
This presentation will explore the opportunities and pitfalls that generative AI presents to professional practice. It will highlight Flinders Library's thought leadership in promoting the early adoption of AI, both at the policy and operational levels. We will share insights from our institution's Microsoft 365 Copilot trial, in which four library staff members participated, demonstrating how this tool has not only supported operational efficiencies but also spurred critical conversations around the ethical and strategic implementation of AI across teaching learning and research at Flinders.
Audience participation will be invited throughout the presentation, providing an open forum in which to explore use cases in practice. Attendees will be provided opportunities to engage in an online Q&A (mentimeter) to capture experiences, thoughts, questions and challenges on AI in professional practice, with responses provided in real time.
Meet the Speakers
Prashant Pandey
Director, Library Services, Flinders University
Prashant is a thought leader in library and information science. With a background in computer science engineering, he has revolutionised the university's library systems, promoting research, learning, and digital innovation. Known for his innovative strategies and focus on technological integration, he enhances digital access and resource management. His leadership is defined by commitment to accessibility and user-centric services, significantly impacting the academic success of the university community while driving forward-thinking initiatives in the profession.
Veronica Ghee
Associate Director of Content and Digital Library Services, Flinders University
Veronica Ghee is the Associate Director of Content and Digital Library Services at Flinders University. Veronica plays a pivotal role in overseeing the management and strategic direction of the university's digital library services. With a strong background in library and information management, Veronica is dedicated to enhancing the accessibility and discoverability of academic resources for the university community.
Veronica is known for her collaborative approach and is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. Veronica is particularly interested in exploring how the Library team can work more effectively to ensure that the library services align with the university's strategic goals and meet the needs of the academic community. She believes that leveraging AI can streamline processes, enhance productivity, and provide innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the digital library services.
