Coming soon: II International Research Forum of the Alma Mater University Institute on AI Challenges in Higher Education: Addressing Faculty Concerns
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming higher education, opening new opportunities but also presenting major challenges for faculty. Effective implementation requires in-depth analysis of educators’ concerns—particularly regarding job security, evolving roles, and the need to acquire new skills.
This forum, titled “Challenges of AI in Higher Education: Addressing Faculty Concerns”, aims to provide a space for reflection and dialogue on how institutions can proactively address these challenges. Discussions will focus on investing in targeted training programs for educators and integrating AI into teaching without compromising pedagogical value or the vital role of faculty.
Among the key concerns facing faculty and academic institutions are the following:
- Job security and redefinition of the teaching role: The integration of AI into education may create uncertainty about the future of teaching staff, particularly regarding their traditional roles and the need to acquire new technological competencies. It is essential to examine how AI can complement the work of faculty without dehumanizing the educational process.
- Faculty training and adaptation: Many instructors lack adequate training to effectively use AI in their teaching. A lack of digital skills and resistance to change may hinder the adoption of these technologies. Specific training programs are needed to enable faculty to integrate AI with confidence and sound pedagogical judgment.
- Ethics and responsible use of AI: The increasing availability of AI tools raises concerns about academic plagiarism, transparency in assessment, and the potential overreliance on such technologies by students. Clear regulations must be established to govern AI use and promote a culture of responsible implementation.
- Digital divide and unequal access: Not all students and faculty have equal access to the necessary technology and training to utilize AI. This can lead to inequalities in the educational experience and make large-scale implementation more difficult.
- Data protection and privacy: The use of AI tools involves collecting and analyzing large volumes of student data, raising concerns about privacy and security. Mechanisms must be established to ensure the ethical and legal use of personal information.
- Impact on learning quality: While AI can support education, there is a risk of losing human interaction and hindering the development of essential skills such as critical thinking and creativity. It is crucial to strike a balance between AI use and the active presence of teachers in the educational process.
For those interested in this forum, all information can be found by clicking the following link.