277 - Retaining Perspectives While Utilizing Artificial Intelligence for Qualitative Research and Evaluation

Abstract Information: Educational programs often seek tools to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of evaluating learning programs and providing better feedback to stakeholders. Qualitative research from open-ended comments in surveys, interviews, and focus groups often takes a lot of time and resources. Providing useful timely feedback on large amounts of data frequently is, however, labor intensive. Using artificial intelligence can be a tool to address the efficiency concerns while still providing helpful data. AI has been shown to categorize information by identifying patterns and trends, coding information, and generating reports. This demonstration highlights AI usage for providing feedback and how it can be used to help learners, employees, and evaluators receive timely information. In addition to processing information accurately, we discuss concerns about AI usage and process concerns which must be mitigated. For example, evaluators must be conscious of ensuring that all perspectives are still being retained and that voices are being amplified appropriately. We demonstrate how AI is best used to process qualitative feedback while maintaining the goals of qualitative research and evaluation needs.