(TNS) — There’s a lot of talk about how artificial intelligence will transform the way we live and work, but there are few industries where generative AI is already having a major impact. However, AI is being widely adopted by both students and teachers across educational settings, from K-12 schools to universities. Educators are using AI to create lesson plans and save time on administrative tasks and grading. And students are now regularly using AI chatbots in the classroom and to help with assignments, with mixed results.
The rapid adoption of AI is raising many questions about academic integrity and responsible use of technology among both teachers and students. But universities are also grappling with the challenge of how to prepare a new generation of students for the AI skills they will inevitably need as the workplace changes.
In this week’s panel discussion, aired as part of the Education for Impact webinar hosted by Inc., Fast Company, and Texas A&M University, a group of education innovators shared how their companies are partnering with higher education institutions to do just that. Laura Ipsen, president and CEO of education technology company Ellucian, talked about how an AI-powered solution called Ellucian Journey enables continuous learning by combining skills with actual career paths and workforce gaps.
“that [has] “We need to be able to predict in near real time,” Ibsen said during a panel discussion. “What skills are relevant to today’s global market?” Because it’s evolving very quickly. To make that possible, we need to leverage the power of AI to build solutions and capabilities across education technology. These are the kinds of things that are going to get a lot of attention in higher education, and they’re going to be transformative. [and] move with speed. ”
Online learning platforms like edX and its parent company 2U have made it possible for workers to upskill and reskill at various points in their careers through certifications and courses from top higher education institutions.
“What we’re trying to do with our partner institutions is make sure people have the right skills at the right time,” said Anant Agrawal, 2U’s chief academic officer and founder and former CEO of edX. “If you’re 35 and have two kids, the chances of you going back to college and getting a new degree are zero. So, really, your only option is to do something online. You don’t have the time or patience to spend two or four years learning something new.”
As lifelong learning becomes the norm, universities can play an important role in reaching people long after they leave the education system. Agrawal said EdX currently offers courses on generative AI, including courses taught by generative AI, tailored for workers and leaders who need to understand the technology. The partnership with Microsoft, called CxO Edge, caters to executives who want to leverage AI to run their businesses.
“Employers are having their employees take courses on our platform… whether it’s financial AI, marketing AI, or more fundamental subjects like core AI,” Agrawal said. “We are seeing a huge uptake of AI courses and content by employers.”
In response to the reluctance of some higher education institutions to adopt or invest in AI, Ibsen argues, “You need to jump into the sandbox and start playing with AI, because this is going to happen. It’s going to happen with or without you.”
Many universities are facing existential questions about their value in a world that is being reshaped by AI, especially as tuition costs continue to rise and new graduates find it difficult to find jobs. Lee Weiss, Kaplan’s chief commercial officer for higher education, believes this is an opportunity for universities to step up.
“We are now at a stage where there is more disagreement about whether higher education is relevant,” Weiss said during the panel discussion. “The university has a very important role in making sure you get your degree here. [and certifications] What students are gaining is relevant to a rapidly changing world.
“Ensuring students acquire the AI skills they need to be competent and confident is critical.”
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