News Summary
Arizona State University (ASU) is launching a new artificial intelligence course called ‘The Agentic Self,’ to be taught by tech entrepreneur will.i.am. This innovative course will aim to integrate human communication and ethics into AI functionality, helping students navigate the evolving technological landscape. ASU’s commitment to AI education is further underscored by their existing use of AI tools in the curriculum and partnerships with Korean universities to enhance AI initiatives. The course will offer in-person and online participation, focusing on ethical uses of AI technology.
Tempe, Arizona – Arizona State University (ASU) is set to launch an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) course taught by music industry icon and tech entrepreneur will.i.am, with the aim of empowering students in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. ASU President Michael Crow announced the arrival of will.i.am, who will commence his role as a professor of practice in January 2026 and will teach a 15-week course titled “The Agentic Self.” This course will concentrate on integrating human communication and ethical considerations into the functionality of AI.
As part of ASU’s commitment to embrace AI and its educational implications, Crow emphasized the necessity for universities to incorporate AI into their curricula. He characterized AI as a pervasive presence and a significant driver of transformation in teaching and learning methodologies. This commitment to AI is already evident, as ASU has implemented various AI-driven tools, including e-advisers, chatbots, and virtual-reality courses, all designed to enhance educational outcomes and personalize student experiences.
During Crow’s recent visit to Seoul, South Korea, he not only discussed the upcoming course but also outlined ASU’s vision for deeper collaborations with Korean universities and technology industries to further advance AI education. Potential new academic programs, including a master’s degree in public policy, were also on the agenda during his discussions.
ASU has established significant partnerships with several respected institutions in Korea, such as Seoul National University and Yonsei University. Over the past five years, more than 40 leaders from various Korean universities have visited ASU to explore innovative technology applications within educational settings.
In addition to its educational initiatives, ASU plays a crucial role in Arizona’s semiconductor industry, collaborating with TSMC, a major semiconductor foundry based in Phoenix. With a robust engineering program comprising 34,000 students, ASU is dedicated to forging partnerships within advanced technology sectors to further enhance its educational offerings.
By adapting to technological advances, Crow believes that universities must remain inclusive entities that foster human creativity and problem-solving capabilities essential in the modern age. The partnership between ASU and OpenAI, announced in January 2024, allows students access to cutting-edge tools such as ChatGPT, which can significantly enhance their learning experiences.
Through these collaborations, ASU envisions itself as a pioneer in creating an educational environment that promotes lifelong learning opportunities for individuals at all stages of their education. This commitment is aimed at broadening access to quality education and tackling the pedagogical challenges posed by technological changes.
The course “The Agentic Self,” hosted at will.i.am’s Hollywood studio, will accommodate both in-person and online participants. The course will not only focus on the practical applications of AI but also emphasize the ethical, educational, and responsible use of AI technology. This aligns with ASU’s ongoing efforts to prepare students to consider the broader societal impacts of technology.
will.i.am, who has also founded the i.am Angel Foundation to promote STEM education for underprivileged students, will bring a unique perspective to the classroom, potentially inspiring future innovators in the field. In addition to “The Agentic Self,” ASU plans to expand its Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business program to Los Angeles in fall 2026, stressing real-world applications and professional networking within the curriculum. Courses within this program will focus on the ethical and responsible use of AI in various contexts, ensuring that students are well-equipped to address the complex challenges associated with technological advancements.
ASU has been recognized for 11 consecutive years as the most innovative university by U.S. News & World Report, highlighting its forward-thinking approach and commitment to educational excellence.
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Additional Resources
- People of Color in Tech
- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
- AZ Big Media
- Google Search: Arizona State University AI course
- Phoenix New Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ethics
- EdScoop
- Google News: will.i.am ASU
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