A major university is taking aim at tech in a sweeping ban against electronic devices in an effort to "ensure students actually learn to think critically, strategically and independently without relying on AI," according to administrators.The University of Chicago has issued a ban on first-year law students using phones, tablets and laptops in class, a statement released by school administrators said Thursday.The ban is set to take effect this fall, with university officials saying the rule will combat the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom.NEW YORK MAKES HISTORY WITH FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND LAW REGULATING AI-POWERED COMMERCIALSThe University of Chicago is banning electronic devices in first-year law classes beginning this fall as part of a strategy to strengthen independent thinking while teaching students how to use AI responsibly.(iStock)"With AI disrupting higher education, our commitment to rigorous legal education also must mean openness to even rapid adaptation," the statement said.
"A willingness to rethink our practices is consistent with our law school’s long history of innovation."According to the statement, administrators have worked throughout the past year to determine the best way to adopt AI within their curriculum and campus policies, and have sought feedback from the community, students, faculty, law firm leaders and legal technology executives."The feedback we have received throughout this process has been consistent," they added."We need to ensure that our students actually learn to think critically, strategically, and independently without relying on AI; but we also must face the reality that AI tools are already widely available to our students, and our graduates will be expected to be prepared to use them in legal practice."A PROGRESSIVE POPE TAKES AIM AT AI AND RISKS KILLING ITS MIRACLESAccording to a statement by the school, "With AI disrupting higher education, our commitment to rigorous legal education also must mean openness to...