University of Chicago Law School is adapting its teaching methods in response to the rise of artificial intelligence in the legal field. Dean Adam Chilton highlights how AI technologies are increasingly capable of performing tasks traditionally done by lawyers, such as legal research and reviewing documents. To prepare students for a future where these functions are automated, the school has introduced a ban on laptops during foundational first-year courses. This measure encourages students to develop critical skills like active listening and analytical thinking, which remain essential despite technological advances.
This approach reflects a wider trend in legal education focused on cultivating uniquely human abilities that AI cannot replicate. By limiting reliance on digital devices in class, Chicago Law aims to ensure its graduates maintain a competitive edge. The shift underscores the institution’s commitment to evolving its curriculum to meet the challenges and opportunities brought about by automation in the legal profession.