The iconic career advice from “The Graduate” might be different if the movie were remade today, shifting from “plastics” to “artificial knowledge.” The Defense Department, along with numerous other industries, is progressively exploring the potential benefits of AI. There is a growing consensus among department officials, business leaders, and academics that AI should play a more prominent role in education and training models.
Andy Van Schaack, an associate professor at Vanderbilt University, emphasized the importance of integrating AI into educational programs to prepare students for the future demands of the workforce. He advocates for the extensive use of AI across various aspects of training solutions, from project management to company administration.
Svitlana Volkova, a chief computing scientist at Aptima Inc., highlighted the transformative potential of generative AI in revolutionizing learning processes and knowledge sharing. She envisions personalized tutors and intelligent assistants leveraging generative AI to enhance adaptive training and personalized learning experiences.
Volkova also pointed out the limitations and biases inherent in current AI models, emphasizing the need for further research and development to address these challenges. She stressed the importance of transitioning from text-based AI to multimodal models that can incorporate diverse forms of data and interactions.
Keith Brawner, a program director at Army Futures Command, discussed the application of relational AI in simulations to enhance training experiences and generate tailored content. He underscored the role of AI in automating after-action reviews and creating dynamic learning environments.
Jonathan Elliott, from the Defense Department’s Algorithmic Warfare Directorate, highlighted the experimental nature of incorporating AI into training and simulations. He emphasized the importance of data curation and labeling to optimize AI performance in training exercises.
Overall, the discussions underscored the evolving role of AI in education and training, emphasizing the need for continuous experimentation, research, and collaboration to leverage AI effectively in complex defense scenarios.
