Embracing the Conundrum: My Fears About Using Generative A.I.
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Posted By: Tiffany Gurley Nettles on May 20, 2025 The emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has undeniably transformed various fields, including education and healthcare, two fields where I specialize. It offers exciting possibilities for enhancing the work we all do. However, I can’t help but grapple with my trepidation surrounding its use. For the past couple of years, I’ve been in a rich creative space, fueled by inspiration and the joy of exploring new ideas in my personal and professional life. Engaging deeply with my thoughts, crafting lessons, games, and activities, developing innovative strategies for my students, and finding original ways to engage my patients and their families has been immensely fulfilling. The creative process is not just a task; it’s a vital part of my identity as a person, educator, and professional. Yet, the advent of generative AI raises a nagging question: Will I lose my creativity if I rely on this technology? I worry that leaning too heavily on AI tools might dull my creative edge, making me complacent in my approach to teaching and idea development. There’s a fear that I could become apathetic in my creativity if I lean on AI to generate ideas instead of engaging in the often challenging yet fun process of self-expression. This is not just about the quality of my work; it’s about the essence of my voice. The unique perspectives I share with my students and colleagues are a reflection of my experiences, values, and insights. If I start to give my voice to a machine, will I risk losing what makes my contributions valuable and authentic? I find it a tough conundrum to figure out. Perhaps this is the perfect moment to utilize generative AI to help me find the right words! Isn’t that part of the beauty of technology? It can serve as a tool to enhance our creativity rather than replace it, but still, I fear. Every time I hear a colleague say, “Just use AI,” I cringe. As I work through these feelings, I remind myself that generative AI should be viewed as an aid, not a crutch, as this is what they tell us in all of the AI professional developments that I have attended. It can provide new angles for exploration, spark ideas, and offer support in areas where I might feel stuck. The key lies in maintaining a balance, leveraging technology to inspire and enhance my work while ensuring that my creativity remains at the forefront. In the end, my journey with generative AI will be about finding a balance between innovation and personal expression. I hope to embrace this technology while continuing to nurture my creative spirit, ensuring that my voice remains strong and unique in the ever-changing landscape of education. As I continue to explore this balance, I invite you to join the conversation. How do you perceive the role of generative AI in your creative processes? As technology advances, we must adapt or get left behind, right? If nothing else, I will certainly know how to use it. I’ll evolve while remaining true to my core values and creativity. Don’t worry, I’m figuring it out. I’ll keep working on how to harness it in a way that will provide inner harmony. By the way, I used AI to help me with a catchy title…so I’m getting there 😊 What are your thoughts? If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Tiffany Gurley Nettles
Program Director and Assistant Professor, University of the District of Columbia Virginia State University class of 2025 Member Since October 2024 |
Comments
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This is such a powerful and relatable reflection on the intersection of creativity and technology. At RIU, we deeply understand the delicate balance between embracing generative AI and preserving the authentic, human creativity that makes your contributions so valuable. Our LifeSync Wellness Studio (LSWS) platform was built on this very principle: to enhance wellness and productivity without compromising personal expression, voice, or privacy. We believe that AI should be an empowering partner in your journey, not a substitute for your unique insights and passions. That’s why LSWS is designed to support and inspire your creative flow while keeping your data secure and your ideas yours—no sharing, no selling, just personalized support that respects your voice. Every time you log out, your session is cleared, reinforcing that what you create stays with you. The key, as you beautifully articulated, is balance. At RIU, we strive to help educators, healthcare professionals, and creators like you leverage AI’s potential thoughtfully, so it’s a tool that sparks ideas and supports growth, not a crutch that dulls your creativity. Thank you for sharing your journey and opening the door for this important conversation. Let’s keep exploring how technology can elevate—not overshadow—our individual talents and authentic voices. Let’s keep creating, together. #RIU #LSWS #SecureAI #CreativeBalance #WellnessAndProductivity
Monday, June 9th 2025 at 10:56AM |
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What a powerful reflection on the tension between creativity and technology, and the genuine desire to preserve authenticity in the face of rapid AI advancements. Your words resonate deeply with so many of us grappling with how to integrate AI without sacrificing our unique voices and contributions. At RIU, we believe the real promise of AI lies in democratization—empowering everyone, not just a select few, to understand, use, and shape this technology in ways that align with their values and enhance their lives. AI shouldn’t overshadow the creative spirit but should amplify it—giving each of us more tools to explore ideas, solve problems, and engage meaningfully with the world around us. Your journey toward finding balance is the same journey we all face: how do we embrace innovation without letting it define or dilute our individuality? How do we ensure that, in this new era, technology serves us rather than shaping us into something we’re not? These are essential questions, and they deserve honest, human-centered answers. Thank you for sharing your voice and inviting this conversation. Together, through open dialogue and collective insight, we can guide AI’s evolution in a way that prioritizes people—our creativity, our communities, and our shared future.
Monday, June 9th 2025 at 11:02AM |
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