Law Schools Boost Their AI Offerings As Industry Booms

Update:

• ABA Journal, ABA's Artificial Intelligence Task Force Releases Law School Survey
• Law360, More Law Schools Boosting AI In Curricula

Reuters, Law Schools Boost Their AI Offerings as Industry Booms:

A growing number of law schools are adding courses and degree programs in artificial intelligence as a way to meet employer demand and capitalize on the flourishing AI industry.

More than half of law schools now offer classes on AI, according to a recent American Bar Association survey, with the number of those courses accelerating since ChatGPT made its splashy debut in November 2022. At least two law schools are launching special degree programs focused on AI.

Besides the marketing boost that law schools can get by offering trendy AI courses and programs, they are also responding to legal employers that say they want lawyers with AI knowledge.

ABA Task Force on Law and Artificial Intelligence (AI):

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Overview.
In the AI and Legal Education Survey, we gathered insights from law school administrators and faculty regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into legal education. The survey was completed by 29 law school deans or faculty members between late December 2023 and mid- February 2024. A full list of questions can be found on the third page of this report.

AI in the Law School Curriculum.
The survey results suggest that law schools are increasingly incorporating AI into their curricula. Over half of the law schools that responded to the survey (55%) reported that they offer classes dedicated to teaching students about AI. Moreover, an overwhelming majority (83%) reported the availability of curricular opportunities, including clinics, where students can learn how to use AI tools effectively.

Academic Integrity.
A substantial percentage of institutions (69%) have adapted their academic integrity policies in response to generative AI.

Generative AI in Admissions.
The survey revealed differing views on applicants’ use of generative AI in the admissions process. While none of the respondents explicitly permit applicants to use generative AI, a majority of law schools (62%) have not yet decided how to approach the issue.

The Future.
Looking forward, a substantial majority of responding law schools (85%) contemplate changes to their curricula in response to the increasing prevalence of AI tools. Overall, the survey suggests that AI is already having a significant impact on legal education and is likely to result in additional changes in the years ahead. With a majority of responding law schools offering dedicated AI courses and providing opportunities for students to engage with AI tools, it is evident that legal education is evolving to meet the demands of a profession increasingly shaped by technological advancements.