Original Post followed by summary notes added after the meeting:
Hi All–
There has been a lot of talk and tension this week about AI in our program. I am hosting an open meeting in the Recital Hall today/Friday, September 19th at 5pm for students to come and express their concerns, ask questions, and learn some context about the topic. What is happening? What is not happening? What is the difference? What are appropriate ways we can engage in difficult conversations? There has been a lot of misinformation floating around and I would like to clear the air. Please attend if this is something you are passionate about. Always -Jessie Chapman
*Summary notes from meeting provided by request, since not all who wanted to attend could be present (please note: I was not taking notes so the summary provided is from memory and covers broad strokes of the conversation vs. every point spoken):
Information disclosed at the meeting included on specific examples of recent uses of AI in theatre productions: Generative AI used in the creation images last spring for productions, for voices on rehearsal tracks created for Cabaret, organizational AI used in scheduling, formatting of emails, and summarizing and distilling of resources provided to actors on Cabaret.
Prominent shared concerns and requests from students included: 1. More transparency when AI is being used, including what kind of AI. 2. A commitment to avoid using Generative AI in our program moving forward 3. For communication between students and faculty to not contain AI. 4. Working with interested music students in future to record rehearsal tracks without the use of AI.
While there was talk of contributing more formally to future university guidelines and policies, faculty present acknowledged that we can shift practices moving forward prior to any official policy change. The above concerns and requests were affirmed and generative AI vocal tracks will be removed from Cabaret’s resource website, and be replaced with tracks recorded in rehearsals (as needed–it was acknowledged that not all artists working on the show need tracks). I am also working on providing a concern navigation pathway resource to support students with multiple avenues (including some anonymous) to express concerns or interpersonal challenges. Many students who attended expressed gratitude for having this forum provided.
This conversation is ongoing and I know that not everyone who wanted to be present could be. Please reach out or stop by if you weren’t able to attend and would like to share your perspective. Always -Jessie Chapman (Silver 328)