Universities need to find uses for artificial intelligence-enabled technology and support fluency around AI technology, higher education experts recommend in the 2024 Educause Horizon Report.
This was the first year that Educause's annual report included an honors category related to AI trends. This includes insights into how technology is shaping the future of critical thinking and its impact on the workforce. Beyond AI, experts involved in the report say there are growing concerns about cybersecurity and the continuing digital divide among students, especially those from rural, low-income, and marginalized communities. he pointed out.
“As the COVID-19 pandemic comes to a close, talk of a return to 'normality' in higher education belies the significant challenges and ongoing disruption that lie ahead for many institutions.” says the report. “Data and analytics capabilities continue to evolve, creating new opportunities and new risks for institutions. The most important of these capabilities, generative AI, is one that many of us still do not fully understand. We are committed to changing teaching and learning in ways we don't know or are ready for.”
The report says many universities have seen an increase in cyberattacks in recent years, and these security concerns are exacerbated by student demand for anytime, anywhere learning. To address these risks, the report's experts predict campuses will conduct more cybersecurity and privacy awareness training for students, faculty, and staff, which can be stressful and reduce productivity. It may affect sexuality.
The report says that although the pandemic has increased global connectivity, many students still do not have reliable access to the internet or the devices to access it, which is essential for success in class. As a result, the report suggests universities are lending devices to students and partnering with local governments and other organizations to expand internet access.
“Going forward, institutions will need to find ways to not only provide access to devices and networks, but more importantly, train and support faculty and instructional designers to help students navigate digital learning. Yes,” the report says. “Universities need to invest in and develop curricula around digital literacy that focus on the critical thinking skills students need to use technology effectively and responsibly.”
The report found that AI has both positive and negative impacts on the economy and workforce. Anticipating these challenges, the report recommends teaching professors digital literacy skills and helping them evaluate career paths based on workforce changes related to AI.
The emergence of platforms like ChatGPT has raised significant concerns on campuses regarding the use of generative AI in the classroom, the report said. But as these tools become more sophisticated, there are more ways in which these technologies can impact teaching, learning, and student experiences.
“As these technologies continue to change and adoption increases, higher education institutions will continue to monitor recommendations regarding the use of such technologies, paying close attention to government policy proposals that may be implemented in the near future. and guidelines need to be updated regularly,” the report states. Said. “Educational institutions are finding ways to leverage AI to improve educational experiences and student outcomes, and empowering faculty and students to become more conscious and responsible users by providing digital literacy training and resources. You can also.”
