Dickinson College AI Research Lab Gives Students Hands-On Experience with Large Language Models

• Asia Tabb
  BioRecent Stories

  

  Asia Tabb is the Host and Producer for WITF’s The Spark.
  
  She began her start in radio when she joined legendary radio/ host producer, Doc Christian. She worked closely with Doc for her role on “The Gospel Express, on WHOV 88.1 FM and was a host for “Unrestricted Praise” at Praise FM.
  
  Previously she was an anchor in Shreveport, Louisiana at KTAL/KMSS. Asia also worked as a Multi-Media Journalist at WHP-TV here in Harrisburg, PA.
  
  Asia got her break into news at KTVO in Ottumwa, Ia. While the 2020 caucuses were gearing up. Asia followed many candidates through their campaign trail from Senator Cory Booker, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, and 46th President of the United States Joe Biden.
  
  Asia was born and raised in Norfolk, Va. She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a major in Communications.
  
  Asia is extremely friendly so don’t be afraid to say hi if you see her out and about.

aired; July 20, 2026

Artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly, and Dickinson College is giving undergraduate students the chance to help shape its future. On The Spark, we spoke with Professor John MacCormick, founder of Dickinson’s new Deep Network Understanding (DNU) Lab, along with student researchers John Lee and Biruk Kebede, about the college’s innovative approach to AI research.

The conversation explored how the DNU Lab offers students hands-on experience studying the deep neural networks and large language models that power today’s AI tools. Unlike traditional classroom assignments, students tackle open-ended research questions with no predetermined answers, gaining valuable experience in one of technology’s fastest-growing fields. We also discussed why it’s rare for a liberal arts college to host an undergraduate-focused AI research lab, how the program prepares students for careers and graduate study, and what it means to better understand both the capabilities and limitations of artificial intelligence.

To hear the full conversation with Professor John MacCormick, John Lee, and Biruk Kebede, listen to The Spark podcast. To learn more about Dickinson College’s Deep Network Understanding Lab and its work, visit Dickinson College’s website.