Michael Flierl is taking on a new role at Ohio State as the university’s first AI Faculty Fellow, building on his work as an associate professor and student learning librarian with University Libraries. Through the Faculty Fellow program in the Office of Academic Affairs, faculty gain hands-on leadership experience while contributing to service-learning projects and preparing for future academic leadership roles.
Flierl is already putting his new role into action. He’s hosting workshops through University Libraries on topics such as Teaching AI Fluency: Authenticity and Vulnerability and Teaching AI Fluency: Engaging AI Tools. He is also co-teaching AI-focused First Year Success Series workshops with Shereen Agrawal, executive director at Ohio State's Center for Sofware Innovation, helping new Buckeyes build a foundation in navigating AI tools for learning and everyday problem-solving.
"I'm excited to serve as AI Faculty Fellow, as it connects me with a Buckeye community ready to build the AI future we want, not simply accept one handed to us," said Flierl. "Creating the next generation of AI fluent scientists, humanists, artists and citizens is our collective responsibility. Let's build it together. Your voice. Your perspective matters."
As AI Faculty Fellow, Flierl will also work closely with university leaders to expand AI Fluency for all students. He’ll help identify and share effective approaches across campus, provide feedback on unit plans, and contribute to a “playbook” of best practices so others can replicate successful strategies. Through his fellowship, Flierl will collaborate with educators, advisors and campus partners to pilot strategies like these and strengthen AI Fluency across the university.