A Little Laugh to Lighten the Load
In honour of April 1st, I asked an AI to generate some tongue-in-cheek article headlines based on the real challenges we face in our academic work lives—workload, precarious contracts, and the ever-expanding definition of “other duties as assigned.” The result? A selection of headlines that are entirely fictional (probably), mildly absurd (definitely), and just self-aware enough to sting. Take a break, have a laugh, and remember: if these feel a little too real… you’re not alone.
- AI-Powered Dean Bot Now Assigns Course Loads Using Magic 8 Ball
- “Innovative Flexibility Framework” Pilots 7-Day Workweek for Maximum Student Support
- Faculty Lounge Replaced with Productivity Pod: “No Time to Sip, Only Time to Ship”
- Collective Agreement Translated into Interpretive Dance to Improve Accessibility
- Professional Development Now Includes “Learning to Say No” Workshop
- Workload Equity Achieved After Everyone Assigned Maximum Hours
- Contingent Contracts to Be Rebranded as “Adventure Teaching Packages”
- Academic Chairs to Receive Telepathy Training for Better “Consultation”
In solidarity (and satire),
Jessica Norman
SAFA Communications Officer
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Save the Date: Important Events in May
- SAFA Elections begin April 16, 2025, and conclude on May 7th with online voting.
- SAFA annual BBQ on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 4:00pm.
- The Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held the next day on May 22, 2025, at 4:00pm
Details for all events will be sent out in the coming weeks.
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AI & SAFA Work: Call for Committee Members
If you are concerned about how AI will impact the careers of instructors, counsellors, and librarians, join the new SAFA committee to examine the broader labour and professional implications of AI on academic staff.
Interested members should submit the attached Committee Nomination form to safa@sait.ca by April 6, 2025. The completed form should include your:
- Experience or background in AI applications (preferred)
- Awareness of Academic Staff concerns related to AI
- Strong collaboration skills
- Interest in engaging with other national and international organizations
Contact Amir Fard, SAFA Vice President, if you have questions about this committee.