As previously mentioned in LU News, a questionnaire on the use of AI was sent to a random selection of technical and administrative (TA) staff at the University. The survey was conducted within the framework of the University’s digitalisation and AI initiative. The response rate was 49 per cent, which is sufficient to provide a picture of the current situation. And opinions are divided. The questionnaire has now been followed up with a number of in-depth interviews.
The results show that most people do not use AI at all or very rarely. The most common reasons are:
- The tools are not felt to be relevant for the tasks
- Lack of time and other priorities
- Lack of knowledge, support and training
- Scepticism about AI quality and technical solutions
- Anxiety about privacy, security and environmental aspects
- Fear of losing expertise or work becoming more routine in nature
- Objections on ethical grounds or matters of principle
Several comments in the questionnaire express doubts:
- “I don’t know how and for what I could use it in my work.”
- “AI often gives incorrect information. It’s better to trust experience and normal sources.”
- “The reason is probably that I don’t know what happens to the information I enter there.”
Wide disparity in how AI is used
Some staff members use AI regularly, for example to translate texts, rewrite sentences, search for information or create presentations. One of them is Andrea Nord, administrative coordinator at LTH, who explains that work has become faster and more enjoyable since she started using Copilot.
“I learn new things from Copilot, and meeting minutes can be written in almost half the time now,” she says.
Scepticism and curiosity can coexist
Not everyone is enthusiast about the technology, but even the sceptics are keeping a close eye on developments. Fanni Faegersten, researcher and international coordinator at HT, does not use AI in her daily work – a conscious choice stemming from the love of language and a perspective rooted in the humanities.
“I find language exciting, and I don’t want that type of help – it’s what I enjoy doing,” she says.
However, she sees potential in research and administration.
“In research on ancient history, for example, AI can help us to analyse large volumes of data or visualise artefacts in a new way. But it’s important that people retain control and critical thinking,” she says.
Where AI is used, it is used extensively
Among those who often use AI, language support, text processing and translation are the most common applications. Many also use the tools to summarise long email correspondence, do research, get ideas or create presentations.
For Andrea Nord, it has even led to a nicer work climate.
“I feel less stressed and have more time to spend with colleagues. Our meetings have improved thanks to better meeting minutes,” she says.
A need for more support and training
The questionnaire shows that AI has started to find its place in certain parts of the organisation, but also that many feel uncertain about how the technology can be used in a meaningful way.
There is a clear need for training, support and dialogue concerning the opportunities and risks – and work on developing the University’s digital expertise continues.