UvA AI Chat makes it possible to combine perspectives, simulate different viewpoints, and experiment with new learning formats. “That experimental nature fits perfectly with the Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies (IIS),” says Strømme.

A secure and independent AI platform

The motivation for developing UvA AI Chat was clear: the university wanted a safe environment where students and lecturers could experiment with AI.
Strømme explains: “By having our own AI platform, we remain in control. We’re not dependent on a single provider, and all data stay within our own systems. That provides peace of mind – and the flexibility to tailor the platform precisely to our educational context.”

Learning from interdisciplinary practice

Although UvA AI Chat was developed for the whole university, Strømme sees particular opportunities for interdisciplinary education.
“The beauty of AI is that it allows you to combine perspectives or simulate diverse approaches. That aligns very well with IIS and the people who work here. The experimental nature of the platform reflects the way we innovate in education.”

The entire AI Literacy team at the Teaching & Learning Centre (TLC) consists of staff from all faculties. “Personally, I bring the connection between technology and interdisciplinary education,” Strømme adds.

He also applied that experience in his own work. Strømme developed two e-learning courses: a practical “button course” about how the platform works, and an AI Literacy course that teaches students to use AI responsibly and effectively. “Because you’re dealing with students from all faculties, you need materials that are useful everywhere. What works naturally for one programme might be an obstacle for another. My experience with interdisciplinary teaching at IIS helped enormously.”

Positive reactions from practice

The first responses to UvA AI Chat have been enthusiastic. “It’s really taken off,” says Strømme. “People come with ideas for new features, share feedback on what could work better, or immediately show their own prompts and ask how to improve them. That dynamic is what makes it so enjoyable.”

In practice, the tool is already being used in creative ways. For example, in the Makerspace there’s a bot that helps students find the right materials and safety instructions, or advises them on material choices for 3D printing.

Looking ahead: applications and ambitions

Now that the foundation is in place, Strømme is looking ahead. “In the coming years, we want to focus on applications that are particularly valuable for universities. These are often things that might not be commercially interesting, but that genuinely improve teaching and research.”

And his vision goes even further: “I imagine that in five years, AI could serve as a personal tutor that grows with you throughout your degree. It would know which courses you’ve taken, what feedback you’ve received, and where you’ve struggled. You might even take that tutor with you when you graduate.”

Advice for students and lecturers

Finally, Strømme offers some advice for anyone getting started with UvA AI Chat: “Experiment. And don’t forget to try different models. Sometimes the solution isn’t in the prompt itself, but in choosing the right model.”