Adam RollinsThe University of Maryland (UMD) in College Park has launched an institute dedicated to researching artificial intelligence (AI) and developing the next generation of students to ethically study, manage and use AI technologies. The Artificial Intelligence Interdisciplinary Institute at Maryland (AIM) is a collaborative hub for AI, faculty research, innovative and experiential learning opportunities and AI technology for the public good.
As AI technology becomes increasingly integrated in industry and government, the risk of it being used to cause harm has skyrocketed. The institute will help prepare students to understand the ethics, equity and responsibility of handling AI technologies. UMD expects that, eventually, students across all majors will be required to take an AI course.
AIM will advance the university’s existing commitment to AI expertise, research and learning centers. UMD already has multiple initiatives dedicated to advancing machine learning, integrating AI technology into social systems and manage the long-term impact of AI.
“We’re fortunate to have AI leaders in fields ranging from computer science and engineering to journalism, education and the arts – a unique breadth of expertise that Maryland brings to the table,” UMD Senior Vice President and Provost Jennifer King Rice said. “By uniting our efforts under one institute, we will not only become a magnet for ethical AI development and research but a global leader in preparing students and the workforce for an AI-infused world.”
The institute provides resources and lessons enabling students to learn about how AI applies to their chosen field of study. AIM offers AI majors and minors, certificates, degrees, workforce development programs, AI government and industry partnerships and a cluster of high-performance computers tailored for AI.
Establishing the institute is the latest in the state of Maryland’s efforts to actualize and integrate AI technology. Gov. Wes Moore released an executive order Jan. 1, 2024, outlining measures to incorporate AI technologies and innovation into state agency operations. The order will help the state chart a path to use AI to improve government efficiency and efficacy while mitigating risk of harm.
