Research, curriculum and grading: new data sheds light on how professors are using AI

Georgia State University professor G. Sue Kasun has recently embraced the use of Google's generative AI chatbot, Gemini, in her language education course. This move highlights a burgeoning trend among educators to leverage artificial intelligence in curriculum development and administrative tasks. However, this integration of AI into educational environments is not without its complexities and potential pitfalls.

The Rise of AI in Academia

The utilization of AI technologies like Gemini is becoming increasingly prevalent in higher education. Educators are drawn to AI's ability to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and provide innovative teaching solutions. Professor Kasun's use of Gemini to brainstorm ideas for her course exemplifies how AI can be a valuable tool in the academic toolkit.

"AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach education, offering new avenues for creativity and efficiency," said Professor G. Sue Kasun, reflecting on her experience with Gemini.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

Despite the apparent benefits, the integration of AI in education raises significant ethical and regulatory concerns. The potential for AI to influence educational content and teaching methodologies necessitates a critical examination of its role and impact. Questions about academic integrity, data privacy, and the potential for AI to perpetuate biases are at the forefront of this debate.

Without clear guidelines and oversight, institutions may find themselves navigating uncharted waters. The lack of standardized policies could lead to inconsistencies in how AI is implemented and regulated across educational settings. This uncertainty poses a risk to both educators and students, potentially undermining the integrity of the educational process.

Broader Societal Implications

The adoption of AI in education also has broader societal implications. As AI becomes more integrated into the classroom, it is essential to consider its long-term effects on the educational landscape and society at large. The potential for AI to reshape the educational experience raises critical questions about the future of teaching and learning.

As educators like Professor Kasun continue to explore the possibilities of AI, it is crucial to balance innovation with caution. The development of comprehensive policies and ethical guidelines will be essential to ensure that AI serves as a beneficial tool rather than a disruptive force in education.

Originally published at https://www.npr.org/2025/10/02/nx-s1-5550365/college-professors-ai-classroom

ResearchWize Editorial Insight

AI Integration in Higher Education: A Double-Edged Sword

The rise of AI in academia is as promising as it is perilous. Georgia State University's Professor G. Sue Kasun is at the forefront, integrating Google's AI chatbot, Gemini, into her language education course. This reflects a growing trend where AI is being used to streamline educational processes and spark creativity. But what are the hidden costs?

AI's potential to revolutionize education is undeniable. It can enhance productivity, offer innovative teaching methods, and open new avenues for creativity. Yet, these benefits come with significant challenges. The ethical and regulatory implications of AI in education are profound. Concerns about academic integrity, data privacy, and bias are not just theoretical—they're pressing issues that demand immediate attention.

The absence of standardized policies exacerbates these concerns. Without clear guidelines, the implementation of AI can vary wildly, leading to a patchwork of practices that might undermine educational integrity. This inconsistency is a systemic risk that could have long-lasting effects on both students and educators.

Beyond the classroom, the societal implications are vast. AI's integration into education could fundamentally alter the landscape of teaching and learning. How will it affect the role of educators? What happens to the human element of teaching? These are questions that need answers before AI becomes ubiquitous in education.

As Professor Kasun and others explore AI's potential, a cautious approach is essential. Developing comprehensive policies and ethical guidelines is not just advisable—it's necessary. The goal should be to harness AI as a tool that complements, rather than disrupts, the educational process.

In the rush to innovate, we must not lose sight of the broader picture. The long-term effects of AI in education could shape society in ways we have yet to fully understand. Are we prepared for this transformation? The future of education depends on how we answer that question today.

Looking Ahead

1. Curriculum Revolution: If AI is to be truly transformative, it must be woven into the fabric of educational curricula. This means more than just using AI as a tool; it means teaching students how AI works, its potential, and its pitfalls. Will universities step up to the plate and integrate AI literacy into every discipline, from the humanities to the hard sciences? Or will they lag behind, leaving students to navigate this complex landscape on their own?

2. Teacher Training Overhaul: Educators need to be equipped not just with AI tools, but with the skills to use them responsibly and effectively. This requires a fundamental shift in teacher training programs. Are we ready to invest in our educators, ensuring they are as agile as the technology they wield? Without this commitment, we risk a future where AI's potential is stifled by a lack of understanding and misuse.

3. Policy and Ethics Frameworks: The rapid integration of AI demands robust ethical guidelines and regulatory oversight. What happens if regulators fall behind? The absence of clear policies could lead to a Wild West scenario in education, where AI's benefits are overshadowed by ethical breaches and data privacy scandals. It is imperative that policymakers act swiftly, crafting frameworks that protect students and educators alike.

4. Equity and Access: AI has the power to democratize education, but only if access is equitable. Will AI widen the gap between elite institutions and underfunded schools, or can it be a bridge that offers quality education to all? This is a critical question that educators and policymakers must address. Ensuring that AI tools are accessible to all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, is paramount.

5. Continuous Assessment and Adaptation: The AI landscape is ever-evolving, and our educational systems must be equally dynamic. This means regular assessment of AI's impact on learning outcomes and constant adaptation of strategies and tools. Are educational institutions prepared to be as nimble as the technology they are adopting? Without ongoing evaluation and flexibility, AI integration risks becoming a stagnant, rather than a transformative force.

As we stand on the brink of a new era in education, the choices we make today will determine whether AI becomes a catalyst for innovation or a source of disruption. The time to act is now. Are we ready to shape an educational future that harnesses the power of AI for the greater good?

Originally reported by https://www.npr.org/2025/10/02/nx-s1-5550365/college-professors-ai-classroom.

📌 Take the Next Step with ResearchWize

Want to supercharge your studying with AI? Install the ResearchWize browser extension today and unlock powerful tools for summaries, citations, and research organization.

Not sure yet? Learn more about how ResearchWize helps students succeed.