by Allyson O'Bryant, Student Public Relations Writer
As artificial intelligence becomes an integral part of modern life, colleges are grappling with how to teach it ethically and effectively. For faith-based institutions, like Cedarville University, a further challenge is finding accessible, affordable resources that are also grounded in a biblical worldview.
A Textbook Born From Necessity
Frustrated by the lack of suitable textbooks on AI for his students Dr. John Delano, professor of IT management at Cedarville University, decided to write his own textbook for college students. His textbook, 鈥淔rom Data to AI: Foundations of Ethical Data Management,鈥 guides students from the basic concept of data to the complex systems that enable artificial intelligence. It covers how to work with AI tools, including OpenAI鈥檚 API, and integrates discussion on Christian stewardship and the use of technology.
鈥淎s Christians, it鈥檚 important to wrestle with how we should engage with AI,鈥 said Delano.
The textbook is already in use in the first course of Cedarville鈥檚 new data science track. Delano said he hopes the resource helps students see technology as a means to glorify God and serve others.
Cedarville鈥檚 AI Milestone
The textbook鈥檚 release coincides with a significant milestone for the university. Cedarville recently became the first evangelical Christian university 鈥 and the only university in Ohio 鈥 to launch ChatGPT Edu campuswide.
鈥淎t Cedarville, I believe we have a unique opportunity to model biblical stewardship of AI in education,鈥 said Delano. 鈥淩ather than simply adopting AI for efficiency鈥檚 sake, we should thoughtfully integrate it in ways that enhance learning while preserving the essential relational aspects of Christian education.鈥
Equipping Students for the Future
Cedarville aims to ensure its graduates are equipped to use AI responsibility, guided by a distinctly biblical perspective. Delano鈥檚 textbook serves as a cornerstone of that mission.
鈥淔rom Data to AI: Foundation of Ethical Data Management鈥 is available in print on or as a free digital download on .
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation鈥檚 top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.