STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s Department of Communication Studies is determined to remain at the forefront of technology with the newly formed International Artificial Intelligence and Communication Institute (IAICI), a gathering of scholars from multiple countries across the Americas representing a variety of academic disciplines and professions.
Students and industry fellows from the Texas Social Media Research Institute created IAICI to probe opportunities in the AI and communication field. It provides professional development webinars, conferences and research networking, in addition to a speakers bureau. Fresh research partnerships with other institutions are envisioned.
“AI, whether we like it or not, is trickling into our jobs, our daily lives, our schools — to not focus on it would be to turn a blind eye to something that is very clearly not just about to happen,” said IAICI fellow Alba Zarate, a recent Tarleton State communication studies graduate. “It is happening now.”
The institute helps rural populations prepare for the future.
“Rural areas should take a close look and focus on the technology advancements,” said information technology major and IAICI undergraduate fellow Amber Tyler. “AI can foster entrepreneurship and create new job opportunities. It can help streamline operations, improve product quality and reach broader markets.”
Artificial intelligence also has agricultural and ecological applications.
“There are advancements that will improve efficiency in farming, ranching and water conservation,” said CareyLyn Ryan, an IAICI industry fellow. “AI can help construct blueprints, take drone pictures and show adaptations, helping increase knowledge of the topography of the land.”
The public is invited to join IAICI in its “Living with AI” series most Tuesdays at noon on Zoom. Upcoming sessions:
- March 5 – Digital Health for Seniors (cosponsored with Erath Engaged)
- April 9 – AI for Public Relations: Building Relationships and Reputation in the Age of Automation
- April 23 – Digital Health for Parents and Kids: AI-assisted Healthcare at Home
- April 30 – AI and Ethics: Debating the Ethical Gray Areas of AI
Organizers vow interactive sessions, eye-opening material and ideas to help people accomplish everyday tasks with artificial intelligence. Click here to register. Contact Dr. Jennifer T. Edwards at jtedwards@tarleton.edu for more information.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.