At the Trailhead: The State and Future of AI in Higher Education

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Higher education’s relationship with AI continues to evolve.

Over the past two years, we’ve conducted research dedicated to understanding perceptions and use-cases for AI in higher education. Nearly 1,000 instructors shared their thoughts and experiences, telling us how AI impacts their teaching and students’ learning, and what AI can bring to higher education.

Our white paper, “At the Trailhead: The State and Future of AI in Higher Education,” gathers these insights, giving us a detailed view of how GenAI is being used today, the concerns and risks around it, and what’s needed to make it an even better tool in the classroom.

Some key things we learned

Almost all instructors agree that GenAI will play an increasing role in higher education. In just one year (2023 –2024), AI use among instructors has nearly doubled, and nearly half of instructors have a positive view of generative AI. Additionally, 71% say GenAI can play a role in supporting lifelong learning.

While many instructors are optimistic about GenAI in higher education, it’s still unchartered territory — and most are simply figuring it out along the way. Many are eager to see how it can help them save time and support their workload. However, questions about AI’s impact on job security, academic integrity and critical thinking remain top of mind for instructors.

“Whether I like it or not, it is already impacting our daily lives, and its impact will only get greater. I believe it is important for us to wisely harness its potential while carefully reducing its potential harms.” – Assistant professor, AZ

How is AI already being used in higher education?

From ChatGPT to our own Student Assistant, instructors are experimenting with GenAI tools in their classrooms, using them to enhance student engagement and personalize learning.

Our white paper explores five use-cases, along with thoughts from faculty, shedding light on the possibilities and limitations of AI in the classroom. These use-cases include:

1. AI for Student Success and Personalized Learning
2. AI for Lesson Planning
3. AI for Administrative Tasks
4. AI for Classroom Engagement
5. AI for Assessment

Read all the findings on AI in higher education

View these use cases in full, and dive deeper into faculty’s thoughts on AI in higher ed by downloading the “At the Trailhead” white paper.