Key points:
- Higher ed AI has much potential–but it must be used effectively and honestly
- 30 predictions about edtech’s role in higher ed in 2024
- Here’s how AI can increase equity in student success
- For more news on AI in higher ed, visit eCN’s Teaching & Learning page
Artificial intelligence is one of the most-discussed topics in education today. And while higher ed AI has seemingly limitless potential in education, it also has divided educators–some worry about generative AI’s negative impact on academic dishonesty, while others are eager to explore how it may be used as a teaching tool.
As we enter 2024, industry experts are excited to see where higher ed AI will go–and they’re offering their perspectives on what colleges and universities might look forward to, and be cautious of, in the coming months.
Higher ed AI
Generative AI in higher education is on the move. “In 2024, higher education will continue to be significantly influenced by the integration and maturation of AI technologies. AI in education, far from being a transient trend, has become a cornerstone in reshaping how we teach and learn. Tools like ChatGPT have transitioned from being futuristic concepts to practical realities in educational settings,” predicted Anant Agarwal, founder of edX and chief platform officer at 2U. “AI’s role in education will evolve from automating tasks to offering personalized, real-time assistance to learners. It can enable educators to provide a more individualized learning experience, ensuring each student can learn in the most effective way for them. We will delve deeper into harnessing AI’s potential as a copilot that complements the human elements in learning and teaching – not just in terms of content delivery but also in reshaping the entire educational landscape to be more inclusive, responsive, and aligned with the evolving needs of learners and educators alike.”
How is AI used in higher education?
When it comes to generative AI applications in higher ed, “in 2024, AI will begin to touch most aspects of university life – from the student experience and faculty research to physical infrastructure on campus, and even athletics,” said Delia DeCourcy, worldwide education portfolio manager at Lenovo. “All of this has the potential to improve students’ access to resources and support, automate tasks so faculty has more time to spend on teaching, and enhance efficiencies and decision making at the administrative level. However, this is dependent on institutions leveraging AI in ways that matter. In the year ahead, universities must develop a comprehensive plan for how AI can help achieve their goals and ensure they have both the right people and technology in place to successfully implement it.”
How does generative AI affect higher education?
Looking ahead, AI in education is impacting many pathways.
“In 2024, AI and accessibility will continue to play a significant role in shaping higher education trends. Five AI-based systems and approaches will benefit students with disabilities: (1) AI-powered adaptive learning systems that tailor educational content to individual students’ needs, pace, and learning styles; (2) predictive analysis systems using AI that better identify students at risk of falling behind, allowing for timely intervention and support; (3) AI-driven virtual assistants and chatbots that assist students with administrative tasks, answering queries, and providing guidance on coursework; (4) improved accessibility features using AI that enhance the educational experience of students with disabilities; and (5) automated grading systems powered by AI that can help design assessments that are inclusive and accommodate different learning styles and abilities,” said Dr. Sam Chandrashekar, global accessibility lead at D2L.
“However, for these systems and approaches to be truly beneficial to students with disabilities, AI-based decision-making systems must include inputs from people with disabilities and generative AI-based interactive systems must keep accessibility top of mind while building the user interfaces. The successful integration of AI and accessibility measures will depend on collaboration between educational institutions, technology providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders. Additionally, ethical considerations, such as ensuring fairness and transparency in AI algorithms, will be crucial to building trust in these technologies within the education sector heading into the new year.”
What is an example of generative AI in education?
As AI expands in institutions, higher education news will become more reflective of current generative AI trends.
One example: “AI career advising is going to hit the market hard in 2024! Employers will start seeing applicants show up to interviews much better prepared. Resumes will look much more refined. Candidates will step into interview rooms with more confidence because of pre-interview preparation enhanced by AI-facilitated mock sessions and skill-building activities,” forecasted Jared Chung, founder and executive director of CareerVillage. “With growing demand, I also foresee more advising platforms hitting the market. One of the uncertainties is the extent to which inequality in AI accessibility could play a role – will those with the most access to today continue to have the most access to AI tomorrow? There are many in the nonprofit sector who are trying to make sure that access is equitably distributed to level the playing field.”
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