We taught students to write like robots—and now robots can write. But if we are ready to meet the moment, the advent of generative artificial intelligence can also usher in a new golden age for the humanities. This presentation explores how humanities educators can engage critically with artificial intelligence while preserving the essential human elements of humanities education. 

This talk will examine historical examples of technological change and engage in an interactive analysis of AI-generated literary criticism that will help participants develop strategies for incorporating AI literacy into their teaching while resisting the hegemony of not-so-open AI corporations. We must engage in humanities teaching that celebrates uniquely human qualities rather than competing with algorithmic capabilities. You’ll leave with concrete assessment strategies, collaborative resistance approaches, and a renewed appreciation for the irreplaceable role of humanities education in the age of generative artificial intelligence.

Liza Long is an Associate Professor of English at the College of Western Idaho and serves as one of two AI Fellows. She is the author or co-author of several open education textbooks including Write What Matters, Critical Worlds: A Targeted Approach to Literary Analysis (co-written with ChatGPT 3.5), and Cyborgs and Centaurs: Academic Writing in the Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence.