iU Launches Ambitious AI Initiative to Transform Education and Admissions by 2027

iU's Vision: Becoming a Pioneering AI University

In a groundbreaking move, iU (Professional University of Information and Management for Innovation), located in Sumida-ku, Tokyo, has announced its ambitious goal to become a leading institution in the field of artificial intelligence by adopting a comprehensive university-wide AI initiative. With the motto “iU Will Become an AI University!”, this initiative encompasses all facets of education, research, and administration starting from the academic year 2027. This announcement marks a significant step towards integrating generative AI technologies into the academic ecosystem, which will not only enhance learning but also redefine how students interact with these technologies.

The Genesis of the AI Policy

Under the leadership of President Ichiya Nakamura, iU is responding to the rising need for skills associated with advanced technologies in today’s competitive job market. The integration of AI is not just about utilizing it as a mere tool, but recognizing it as a partner for co-creation. This shift in perspective is tied closely to iU’s educational philosophy that emphasizes enjoying change, fostering independent learning, and driving innovation.

In 2021, iU was a pioneer in the educational landscape by introducing a digital entrance exam that leveraged PC, smartphone, and Internet accessibility. The new generative AI-based selection method builds on this foundation, positioning iU at the forefront of educational innovation.

Key Features of the New AI Policy

To realize its vision, iU plans to implement a range of specific actions by 2025. Here are the core aspects of this initiative:

1. AI Utilization in Education: iU aims to leverage generative AI across all classes and among all faculty and students, fostering an environment where AI becomes an integral part of the learning process. This includes the introduction of an entrance examination that assesses candidates' proficiency in using AI technologies effectively.

2. AI in Research: Every research project will integrate AI tools, expanding the scope and effectiveness of studies particularly in fields like medicine, transportation, entertainment, robotics, and education. This initiative is aimed at harnessing AI's potential to solve complex problems more efficiently.

3. Administrative Efficiency through AI: The development of an AI president signifies a bold move towards digitally transforming administrative roles. This strategic shift aims to streamline operations and target a 30% reduction in working hours by simultaneously advancing Digital Transformation (DX) and AI capabilities.

The Generative AI-Based Selection Method

Breaking away from traditional methods that merely measure knowledge, iU’s new selection process emphasizes evaluating candidates’ abilities to creatively tackle problems using generative AI. Key elements of the new assessment criteria include:

- Submission of Generative AI Deliverables: Candidates will be tasked with presenting work produced using generative AI, demonstrating their competence in this emergent technology.
- Quality of Prompt Engineering: Evaluating the creativity and ingenuity behind the prompts used to generate content will be a focal point of assessment.
- Improvement and Revision Skills: The process will also assess candidates' abilities to refine their submissions based on feedback, which is crucial for real-world applications of AI.
- Document Review: Standard application components, such as transcripts, will still play a role in the admission process.
- Interview: An interview will be conducted to gauge the candidates' understanding of iU's educational philosophy and objectives.

Further details about the selection criteria, evaluation standards, and application requirements will be made available on the official iU website in the future. The integration of these AI-centric practices represents a significant leap toward preparing future leaders in a society increasingly defined by technological innovation.

By embracing AI not only in its educational structure but also in its student selection methods, iU is setting a compelling precedent for universities worldwide, paving the way for a new era in higher education that prioritizes technological proficiency and collaborative problem-solving.

For more information, visit iU's official website.