As we continue to explore innovative ways to enhance our teaching practices, I wanted to share some thoughts on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. The Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) is leading the charge in this area, and there are exciting opportunities and challenges that we should consider. One thing is for certain, we will have to consider the benefits of using AI and include AI aspects within our courses, especially since our students will now need to include their AI literacy skills on resumes.
Benefits and Challenges of AI in Education
AI has the potential to revolutionize our educational landscape by providing personalized learning experiences, automating administrative tasks, and offering new ways to engage our students. Tools like adaptive learning platforms can tailor content to individual student needs, allowing them to progress at their own pace. AI can assist in grading, freeing us up to focus more on teaching and mentoring our students.
In many of the Snack and Share events, we have discussed the challenges that come with AI in education. Privacy concerns, data security, and the ethical use of AI are critical issues that we need to continue to address. There is also the risk of exacerbating existing inequalities if AI tools are not accessible to all students. It is essential that we navigate these challenges carefully to ensure that AI enhances the educational experiences for each student.
AI-Resistant and AI-Inclusive Assignments
One of the aspects that made its way to previous Snack and Share events is the discussion on AI-resistant and AI-inclusive assignments. In order to maintain academic integrity and encourage genuine learning, we can design AI-resistant assignments. For example, we can ask students to connect course concepts to their own lives or observations, design assignments that are completed during class, require students to submit drafts and outlines, and base assignments on local issues or community events. These types of assignments are difficult for AI to replicate authentically. I have incorporated Service Learning into one of my classes which is considered not only AI-resistant but also helps to promote community health and wellness.
On the other hand, integrating AI into our assignments can help students develop critical thinking and digital literacy. We can have students evaluate AI-generated explanations or summaries of course concepts, use AI to analyze assignment prompts, encourage students to use AI for brainstorming or generating ideas, and assign tasks that require students to collaborate with AI tools. These assignments foster a deeper understanding of human-AI collaboration and promote critical thinking and creativity.
Balancing AI in Education
AI offers exciting possibilities for education, but it also presents challenges that we must address thoughtfully. By designing AI-resistant and AI-inclusive assignments, we can harness the power of AI while promoting critical thinking, creativity, and ethical use. ACUE's initiatives in this area are paving the way for a future where AI and education work hand in hand to enhance learning outcomes for all our students.
Staying Updated with AI Trends
Many of our recent conversations and discussions in Snack and Share events have highlighted the growing importance of AI. It is clear that AI is becoming a central topic in our educational discourse, and it is crucial that we stay informed and proactive in our approach with students. As instructors, it is crucial to stay updated with industry changes regarding AI to effectively prepare students for the working world. One effective approach is to create assignments that reflect current AI applications and trends. Another example includes incorporating project-based learning where students can develop AI-driven solutions, such as chatbots for customer service or predictive models for healthcare. As instructors, we can design interdisciplinary assignments that integrate AI concepts into various subjects, like using AI to analyze historical data in history classes or exploring AI-generated solutions for concerns in fields of study. One thing is certain now: instructors will be tasked with changes and updates in assignments to include the latest AI tools and technologies, ensuring students are working with cutting-edge resources. Going forward, we should consider creating relevant and engaging AI assignments, which will help students build the skills needed to thrive in a changing workplace and now an AI-driven workplace.
Let’s Talk Teaching and Snack & Share!
Our upcoming virtual event on AI in Education will explore how AI is transforming learning and teaching. We invite you to join us as we will discuss the use of AI tools for personalized learning and administrative support, AI-inclusive assignments that foster creativity, and AI-resistant assignments to ensure academic integrity. Perspectives from students and faculty will highlight the advantages, challenges, and expectations of integrating AI in education. Friendly reminder, this event will be held only via Teams. See below for event details:
Let’s Talk Teaching and Snack & Share: AI in Education
Dr. Kelly Duffy, Prof. Lee Kenyon, and CITL Director Erin Arthur
⏰ When: Thursday, April 17, 2025 | 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Join us on Microsoft Teams
Contact Information
I look forward to chatting with you soon! As always, if you are interested in the ACUE AI Quick Study series, contact CITL@daytonastate.edu.
Dr. Kelly Duffy, EdD, MSN, RN, ACUE
Senior Professor
Kelly.Duffy@daytonastate.edu
386-506-7320
RN to BSN program