Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education—and at Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) is helping faculty embrace the change with purpose, integrity and clarity.

“It doesn’t take rocket science to see that AI’s impact on teaching and learning is profound,” says Elizabeth Wilcox, CETL Director. “We know students are going to use AI. The real challenge for faculty—and for the university—is figuring out how to design instruction that encourages responsible, thoughtful use of the technology.”

Wilcox prefers to frame the issue not as a problem to solve, but as an opportunity to enhance learning:

“Rather than asking how we prevent misuse, I’d rather ask: How do we teach students to use AI as a tool to deepen their understanding, not replace it?”

Empowering Faculty Through Workshops

CETL has been hosting a series of hands-on workshops to help faculty explore the possibilities of AI in education. These sessions are designed to:

  • Teach AI literacy and responsible use so students can carry these skills into their professional lives
  • Use AI as a teaching enhancement, not a shortcut
  • Support course development through web-based learning platforms like Canvas

In parallel, NDNU is actively developing policies and procedures to define academic integrity in the age of AI—ensuring that ethical standards evolve alongside technological innovation.

“A majority of NDNU courses are now offered online,” Wilcox notes. “That’s a major milestone. While there’s still work to be done, we’re moving forward at an impressive pace.”

What Is Canvas?

Canvas is a web-based Learning Management System developed by Instructure. It enables educators to create, manage, and deliver digital learning experiences across K–12, higher education, and professional training environments.

At NDNU, Canvas serves as the central hub for course delivery. Students use it daily to access assignments, announcements, and resources, while faculty rely on it to post syllabi, manage grading, facilitate discussions, and communicate with students.

What Is CETL?

The Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) supports research-based instruction and student success at NDNU. Working closely with faculty and campus partners, CETL fosters a student-centered, future-focused, and purpose-driven culture of teaching—rooted in the university’s Hallmarks.