University of Bergen professors join Norway government's AI committee for higher education

The Norwegian government appointed the new committee for AI and higher education on March 21.

Experienced researcher in learning and technology

"I am very happy to contribute to this important work," says Barbara Wasson, professor and director of SLATE, the Centre for the Science of Learning & Technology at the University of Bergen.

Wasson brings over 35 years of experience in using AI in learning to the committee's work.

"I will also draw on all the important work we have done in recent years through the UiB AI initiative and the DIGI subjects at the University of Bergen. Additionally, I bring perspectives from my work in the Council of Europe's expert group on AI in education," she says.

Distinguished educator and innovator

Law professor Jan-Ove Færstad has been central in redesigning the Master's program in law to integrate AI competence as a core element throughout the educational program. For lawyers, who work with language and text, AI has great potential to change everyday work life.

"Students still need to acquire basic legal knowledge, but in addition, they must develop knowledge and skills in the professional and responsible use of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies," says Færstad. The changes in education will take effect from fall 2025.

Will advise authorities and universities

The committee on artificial intelligence in higher education will advise central authorities, universities, colleges, and academic communities. Universities and colleges have a high degree of autonomy, and academic freedom gives academic communities the flexibility and responsibility to shape educational content and structures. The advice will help achieve established goals for higher education.

The committee will:

• Provide an overall analysis of how AI affects higher education.
• Analyze the opportunities and challenges AI presents for higher education, including the design of study programs, teaching and learning activities, exams, assessments, quality work, students' work habits, and acquisition of Norwegian subject-specific language.
• Advise on how institutions and academic communities can best relate to AI, to help achieve established goals for higher education through effective resource use.
• Advise on how institutions and academic communities can guide students in the responsible use of AI.
• Advise state authorities on how to harness AI opportunities and solve challenges in higher education, and recommend any necessary actions.

Pro-Rector Pinar Heggernes is very pleased that two of UiB's academic staff members are part of the committee.

"We are proud of the AI academic communities that exist across all our faculties, and the breadth of fields our AI experts come from. This is reflected in the committee," she comments.

Read more about the committe on the goverment's web page (in Norwegian).