Seokyeong University is embarking on a comprehensive strategy to embed Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its academic offerings and administrative functions. This ambitious initiative, dubbed the ‘AI Capability Strengthening Plan,’ aims to equip all members of the university community with the skills to effectively utilize AI, fostering a new generation of industry-ready professionals. The university envisions this pivot as crucial for navigating a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Seokyeong University’s leadership asserts that AI is no longer a niche technology but a fundamental competency applicable to every field. By undertaking a full-scale AI transformation in both education and administration, the institution aims to position itself as a leading practical AI-focused university, capable of shaping the future of industries and society.
AI Education: A Universal Approach
At the core of this strategy is the establishment of an ‘AI Education Innovation Center,’ operating under the university’s ‘Future Strategy & Budget Office.’ This dedicated center will spearhead efforts to enhance AI proficiency across the entire university. Aligned with national educational policies, it will guide the development of university-wide AI educational strategies, ensuring a coherent and progressive learning experience from foundational liberal arts courses to specialized major subjects and practical training.
The university is committed to cultivating ‘universal AI literacy,’ empowering every student to leverage AI as a powerful tool, irrespective of their chosen field or future career path. To this end, Seokyeong University is systematically expanding access to AI utilization education. This includes the introduction of courses designed to familiarize students with a range of AI tools, particularly generative AI technologies.
Recognizing the ethical implications of AI, the university has also made AI ethics education a mandatory component of its liberal arts curriculum. This ensures that students develop a strong understanding of responsible technology deployment and its societal impact. Beyond general AI literacy, Seokyeong University is developing specialized ‘major-specific AI utilization courses.’ These are meticulously crafted to align with the distinct characteristics of various disciplines, including humanities, arts, business, and engineering, enabling students from non-AI-focused majors to apply AI effectively in their respective fields.
Curriculum Reform for an AI-Centric Future
The university is also undertaking a significant overhaul of its AI and software-related major curricula. The software major, for instance, is being updated to incorporate cutting-edge AI technologies such as machine learning and deep learning, with a strong emphasis on project-based practical training. Several programs within the College of Future Convergence are being restructured to become AI-centric, delving deeper into AI algorithm design and system implementation.
To meet evolving industry demands, new courses will be introduced, and interdisciplinary collaboration will be a key focus. This holistic approach aims to create a robust system for nurturing experts who can contribute across the entire AI lifecycle, from development and application to service delivery.
Aspiring to Be an ‘AI Leading University’
Seokyeong University plans to appoint dedicated faculty members to lead AI courses within each department and major, providing crucial support for curriculum development. The university intends to roll out new major and liberal arts courses, informed by successful development cases, starting in the second semester.
The emphasis on AI is strategically aimed at elevating the university’s overall competitiveness. By moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach to coding education and instead focusing on AI utilization tailored to individual major requirements, Seokyeong University seeks to cultivate AI-converged talent that directly addresses industry needs and significantly boosts students’ employability.
This strategic direction is expected to enhance the university’s attractiveness to prospective students, solidifying its brand as an ‘AI Leading University.’ The integration of AI into both educational and administrative systems is anticipated to improve the overall quality of services experienced by students, leading to greater satisfaction with their university life.
Extending AI Education to K-12 Levels
Seokyeong University’s commitment to AI extends beyond its campus. The institution is actively engaged in promoting AI education at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Through strategic partnerships with educational research bodies, including the AI Convergence Education Research Association and the Better Tomorrow Education Research Institute, Seokyeong University is collaborating on the development of AI curricula and content that can be readily implemented in school settings.
Furthermore, the university will provide support for teacher training initiatives and co-host AI education seminars and forums. Seokyeong University is also implementing various AI-driven programs, such as the ‘Visiting School Training Project’ and the ‘Jeju Region Traditional Specialized Industry Digital Transformation (DX) Digital Innovation Project.’ These initiatives aim to foster digital advancement and create stronger links between schools, communities, and the university.
