The University of Lincoln is taking a significant step in its artificial intelligence (AI) journey through an important partnership with Microsoft and Cloudforce. This initiative follows the successful launch of Newton, a self-developed AI tool by the University that is designed to streamline policy access and improve the overall efficiency of digital resources. The newly announced phase will involve the deployment of Cloudforce’s nebulaONE®, a secure and scalable Generative AI platform built on Microsoft Azure, which aims to make AI tools accessible to every student and staff member.
This collaborative effort ensures that the University provides customized and high-quality digital support across its entire community, striving towards equitable access to learning resources. The deployment emphasizes a fundamental principle: AI is designed to complement education rather than replace it. The nebulaONE platform will offer personalized assistance for learning, language support, and research guidance. It encourages students to focus on their critical thinking and creativity, fostering an environment where technology aids educational advancement.
Professor Abigail Moriarty, the PVC for Education and Students at the University, articulated the philosophy behind this deployment: "AI is not a shortcut, it's not cheating—it's a scaffold for lifelong learning and employability." She compared AI’s potential in education to that of calculators in mathematics and the internet in broadening our perspectives, emphasizing its role in making education more inclusive and effective. The University is committed to using AI responsibly, ensuring transparency and integrity remain at the core of educational practices.
The University of Lincoln acknowledges the omnipresence of AI technology and the necessity for students to learn how to use it intelligently and ethically. By integrating nebulaONE across the campus, the institution aims to teach students how to responsibly cite AI, appreciate its limitations, and value their personal insights while utilizing AI tools. This learning approach is vital in preparing graduates for the workforce, equipping them with both the capability to use AI effectively and the understanding of its ethical implications—a growing expectation from employers.
Cloudforce's Vice President for UK and Europe, Danny Attias, praised Lincoln’s human-centered approach. "They are not just introducing new technology; they’re fostering the confidence and integrity that will aid students throughout their lives," he noted. The deployment of nebulaONE intends to enrich the University experience by providing the following benefits:
- - For Students: Equitable access to personalized study support, along with quicker access to resources, promoting an efficient learning atmosphere.
- - For Academics: Access to intelligent research assistance and innovative teaching methodologies that can be scaled across various disciplines.
- - For Administrative Staff: Automation of daily tasks, more streamlined policy management, and valuable data-driven insights to enhance strategic decisions.
This initiative aligns with Lincoln’s mission to maximize the positive effects of AI in education while promoting responsible digital transformation. Moreover, the University joins a network of progressive educational institutions looking to implement responsible AI practices. Recently, Microsoft and Cloudforce published an AI Innovation Guide for Higher Education, showcasing how institutions are adopting nebulaONE to responsibly scale AI technology.
Chris Green, the Chief Operating Officer at the University of Lincoln, remarked this marks a pivotal moment in their digital transformation journey. He stated, "By collaborating with Cloudforce and Microsoft, we are embedding AI at the heart of our services, creating fresh opportunities for innovation and collaboration, all while ensuring access is secure, equitable, and scalable."
Established in the historic city of Lincoln, the University is renowned for transforming the lives of its students through high-quality teaching and research. Over a quarter of the subjects taught rank in the top 10 in the UK, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education. The University's efforts have earned it numerous accolades, including the Queen's Anniversary Prize—considered the UK's highest academic honor—along with a Silver award for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
In conclusion, Lincoln's partnership with Microsoft and Cloudforce not only demonstrates its pioneering spirit in the realm of artificial intelligence in education but also reinforces its dedication to fostering a responsible, ethical, and innovative learning environment for all students and staff.