Afew years ago – at what felt like the dawn of the data age – data scientists were labeled “unicorns” – in light of the vanishingly small chance of finding all the desired attributes in a single employee.
But as we stand on the brink of the age of artificial intelligence, it’s the humble data stewards who really hold the key to unlocking the benefits of AI for universities. University leaders who truly want to leverage the benefits of data and AI should focus their efforts on good data governance. This starts with the stewards.
As with many sectors, universities are currently at the foothills of exploring what advantages AI can bring. While the spotlight at the moment is on the impact on teaching and learning, assessment, and operational efficiency gains, the level of excitement around what AI might bring to university strategy and operations in the future is high. At a minimum, major advances are predicted in learner analytics, personalized student support, strategic analysis, dramatically accelerated research findings, and major operational efficiencies. But these benefits won’t be realized without a focus on good data governance.
The nirvana for data governance is to ensure there is a “single source of truth” that institutional leaders and decision-makers can draw on quickly when planning and implementing their strategies. But behind this simply-expressed aspiration lies a hinterland of connected activity.
