Dr. Elena Rodriguez is a leading figure in our Computer Science department, specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Recently honored with the 2024 Turing Educator Award, she has been at the forefront of integrating ethical AI practices into the curriculum.

We sat down with Dr. Rodriguez to discuss her journey, her research, and what she believes the future holds for students entering the field of AI.

From Mathematics to Machine Learning

Dr. Rodriguez's journey didn't start with computers. "I was a math major," she recalls. "I loved the elegance of logic and proofs. But when I discovered how those mathematical principles could be applied to teach machines how to 'think,' I was hooked."

Her early work focused on neural networks at a time when they were still considered niche. Today, she brings that foundational knowledge to her students, helping them understand the "why" behind the algorithms they use.

The Turing Educator Award

Winning the Turing Educator Award was a significant milestone. The award recognizes excellence in teaching computer science, particularly in ways that inspire the next generation of innovators.

"It's not about the award itself," Dr. Rodriguez says modestly. "It's about the acknowledgment that we are moving in the right direction. AI education shouldn't just be about coding; it should be about critical thinking and ethics."

The Future of AI in Education

As AI continues to evolve, Dr. Rodriguez sees both challenges and opportunities.

• Ethics First: "We can't just teach students how to build models; we must teach them how to build responsible models."
• Interdisciplinary Approach: "AI is touching every field. We need students from business, arts, and humanities to engage with these technologies."
• Lifelong Learning: "The field moves so fast that the most important skill we can teach is how to keep learning."

Advice for Students

When asked what advice she has for students starting their journey in AI, her message is clear:

"Don't be afraid to fail. Some of the most significant breakthroughs in AI came from models that initially didn't work. Stay curious, stay humble, and always ask yourself: 'Is this solution helping or hurting the world?'"

Conclusion

We are incredibly proud to have Dr. Elena Rodriguez as part of our faculty. Her dedication to her students and her field is truly inspiring. If you're interested in learning more about AI, be sure to check out her course, Introduction to Computer Science.