Kirk Askia Talib-Dean
(NON)
Biographical Information
Campaign Phone Number
7028569822
What role do you see artificial intelligence playing in higher education curriculum?
I do understand that technology will continue to move forward. It can both hurt students by not allowing them to challenge themselves; however, it can help students with the proper guidance. I teach English Composition; so, I ask students to challenge themselves to write, to think, to interrogate their thinking. We know the possibilities of AI. There is a debate if there is software that can detect the use of AI; however, again, I ask students to challenge themselves. And I get a great response.
How do you believe artificial intelligence may affect job opportunities for graduates in Nevada?
AI continues to element jobs; however, I think knowing how to use or operate AI give individuals opportunities, professionally. This is why I encourage students to think where they're going, where will the career be that they are interest in in the future. I joke and say the 8-track tape is not coming back, most do not know what the 8-track is. It is important to have graduates able to critically look at themselves and the world, a critical literacy. This is what I have privileged as an educator for over a decade.
What role should the Board of Regents play in responding to changes in federal research funding?
As a researcher, I think research must inform how we understand things, information, or data. We cannot neglect research, medical, scientific, academic, etc. I often ask the question, for the Board of Regents, what informs their decision toward education, especially higher education, and the things that take place in it? Individuals take four, five, sometimes more, years to understand how things are, qualitatively and quantitatively. How can one neglect this? Board of Regents must play a significant role in ensuring funding for research is there; however, not at the expense of making college unaffordable for students.
What are your views on the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the selection of students and faculty?
The data shows that it matters who is teaching the class. Students must see themselves in their teachers, especially for those underrepresented or marginalized students. We must respect difference. The world is not homogenous. And we know, historically, one is impacted by how she or he (or they) look. As an academic, lessons, pedagogy, must be culturally relevant. We must be culturally competent of others, and know, or be willing to learn, which is critical, the willingness to learn, how people and groups navigate the world.
What are your views on student loan repayment or forgiveness programs tied to work or public service?
Finances, money, or one's socioeconomic status, should not, must not, keep a student or person from attending college. There are places in the world where education, higher education, is free. The one who can't afford college may be the one with an education who changes or impacts the world. I would welcome programs that forgive student loans for giving back in an intentional way, almost like a contract; but that may be another discussion. I've spoke to students who are scared to death of borrowing money for the education. And there are students who don't have this concern. And we have to make this possible for every student that is willing to work hard for an education, especially to change the history of their families.