University of Sussex will use AI to teach sociology because course ‘isn’t worth the time’

The University of Sussex has announced plans to implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) to teach its sociology course, citing that the subject “isn’t worth the time” for lecturers.

The decision, which is set to roll out next academic year, is part of an effort to streamline resources and “modernise” the curriculum.

University officials defended the move in an email, explaining that the sociology course had long struggled with low engagement and attendance.

A member of senior management outlined in the email that the decision “follows a thorough review of course demand, student engagement, and the efficient use of university resources.”

The AI will be designed to deliver lectures, moderate discussions, and even grade assignments – tasks traditionally handled by lecturers. According to the university, students will still be able to ask questions and interact with the AI through an online interface, which will simulate the experience of engaging with a real professor.

A spokesperson for the university told The Sussex Tab: “We’ve looked at the data, and the demand for sociology simply doesn’t justify the time and resources invested in it. AI offers a way to provide students with quality education without the unnecessary costs.”

While some students have expressed surprise at the announcement, others seem less than enthusiastic. One third year sociology student, Joe Kerr, told The Sussex Tab: “It feels a bit dystopian. I signed up for a course that’s about human society, and now we’re going to learn about it from a robot? It’s giving Black Mirror.”

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Other students welcomed the new initiative. April said: “If it makes the lectures more efficient and gives us more time for independent research or socialising, I’m not too bothered.”

Despite the mixed reactions, Uni of Sussex officials remain optimistic. “This is the future of education,” the spokesperson added.

“AI can offer personalised learning at scale, and sociology is the perfect course to test it out. We are confident students will see the benefits in the long run.”

The AI driven sociology course will be rolled out in phases across the university, starting with first year modules. Faculty members will continue to oversee the AI’s performance and provide feedback and making adjustments as necessary throughout the trial period.

You should probably check the date, you April fools!