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Learning Technology Integrations

AI’s Transformative Impact on the Higher Education Landscape

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Academia believes there are several positive impacts from using artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. AI can enhance the learning and teaching process while helping students develop valuable skills and competencies. However, the research also highlights some potential downsides of AI implementation. There are concerns about negative psychosocial effects on students and faculty. Data security and privacy issues arise with the collection and use of personal data for AI systems. Ethical questions emerge around the appropriate use of AI in education settings (Pisica et al., 2023).

There is an intense and heated debate taking place regarding the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) across many different areas and industries. On one side are strong advocates who promote the potential advantages of AI. On the other side are determined critics who raise concerns about the disadvantages, threats, or risks that AI could create for us as individuals, for businesses, or for societies at large. However, the debate surrounding AI in higher education is particularly prominent.

Impact of AI on Higher Education

AI is making big changes in higher education, touching everything from operations, student learning, research, and employees. Let’s dive into some examples:

  • Administration: AI tools are streamlining tasks like admissions and student management. Some worry this could lead to less human interaction and a lack of personal touch in the administrative process (Abdous, 2023).
  • Teaching: AI can offer personalized learning experiences and help with grading too. Generative AI (Gen-AI) not only learns from previous data but can also produce new data.   This means that AI not only helps with the grading process and providing feedback to students, but it may produce entire teaching materials, articles, and blogs too, which will definitely kill some creativity. There is some fear it might replace human teachers altogether, raising concerns about the quality of education and the loss of jobs in the teaching sector.
  • Learning: Students’ performance can be predicted using AI-driven tools, which can then offer tailored recommendations for remediation or further success.  There is a concern that reliance on AI could hinder critical thinking skills and creativity among students.
  • Research: AI assists researchers in analyzing vast amounts of data and identifying trends.  Critics worry that this might lead to a dependence on AI-generated insights, potentially stifling innovation and originality in research (Abdous, 2023).
Potential Challenges and Drawbacks of AI Implementation in Higher Education 
  • Impact on employment: In areas like admissions, administrative support, instructional design, teaching, and IT support, the increasing adoption of AI technologies has the potential to streamline operations and automate repetitive tasks. While this can lead to greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness for institutions, it also raises concerns about the future of employment in these sectors. For example, AI-powered systems can handle tasks like data analysis for admissions and student management, reducing the need for manual processing and decision-making by human staff. Similarly, in instructional design and teaching, AI-enabled platforms offer personalized learning experiences and automated grading, potentially diminishing the need for as many human instructors. Moreover, the integration of AI in IT support functions could lead to more efficient troubleshooting and maintenance processes, requiring fewer human technicians (Power, 2024).
  • Privacy Concerns: The proliferation of AI technologies in educational settings raises important questions about data security and privacy. While these systems offer invaluable insights and personalized experiences for students, they also pose potential risks if proper safeguards are not in place (Pisica et al., 2023). For instance, AI algorithms analyzing student performance data may inadvertently reveal sensitive details about individual learners, raising concerns about confidentiality and data transparency. Moreover, the collection and storage of large datasets by AI systems can increase the likelihood of data breaches or cyberattacks, putting student privacy at risk.
  • Cost of Implementing AI: Bringing AI-powered tools into academic settings often necessitates significant investments in infrastructure, software, and staff training. From the procurement of cutting-edge hardware and software to the recruitment of skilled personnel capable of implementing and managing AI systems, to ongoing maintenance and updates, and even providing specialized training programs for faculty and staff, the cost associated with integrating AI into higher education can quickly escalate (Pisica et al., 2023).
  • Dependability: One of the key concerns with AI algorithms is their susceptibility to bias and error. These systems rely on training data to make predictions or decisions, and if the data is incomplete or skewed, it can lead to inaccuracies or disparities in outcomes. For instance, AI grading systems may struggle to accurately assess the quality of student work, especially in disciplines that require nuanced interpretation or creativity.
Potential Benefits and Opportunities of AI in Higher Education

AI not only has disadvantages, but it also has advantages that can prove to be helpful if used properly in Higher Education. Here are a few examples:

  • Virtual Reality Enhanced Learning: Using virtual reality (VR) technology in online learning platforms can be a great way to keep them engaged. VR can create immersive educational experiences that feel like stepping into a different world, which is something students are already familiar with. By combining VR with online learning, teachers can use tools that students understand and enjoy (Crompton & Burke, 2023).
  • Customized Educational Approaches: With online learning, teachers can tailor lessons to fit each student’s strengths and weaknesses. This means students can learn at their own pace and focus on areas where they need extra help, which makes learning more effective and enjoyable (Power, 2024).
  • Analytical Classroom Insights:  With the help of artificial intelligence (AI) tools or programming languages like Pandas-AI, teachers can analyze large amounts of students’ data quickly and efficiently. These tools and software can spot patterns and trends in students’ performance, helping teachers understand what works best in the classroom. This way, teachers can adjust their teaching methods to meet students’ needs and improve learning outcomes.
  • Interactive Learning Games:  Teachers can use quizzes, badges, or leaderboards to motivate and keep students engaged. AI technology can enhance this approach by personalizing the gaming experience for each student based on their performance and preferences. By making learning feel like a game, students are more likely to stay focused and motivated to learn (Pisica et al., 2023).
The Best Ways to Handle AI

In preparing for the integration of AI into higher education, academic institutions must take several crucial steps to ensure a balanced and responsible approach.

Transparency: There should be discussions across the institution gauged to address the implications of AI use in different aspects of the institution, with the understanding of both the advantages and disadvantages of the technologies. Transparency is key here, with topics including data ownership, intellectual property rights, data security, and the protection of individuals’ privacy requiring thorough consideration (Abdous, 2023).

Collaborating: Institutions should actively explore the incorporation of AI across various academic disciplines by identifying opportunities for integrating AI applications and skills into the curriculum.  By infusing AI skills into diverse fields of study, institutions can prepare students for the evolving landscape of technology and innovation (Abdous, 2023).

Special Research Program: Academic institutions should think about setting up special research programs that involve different areas of study to look into how AI affects society, ethics, and education. These discussions could cover a wide range of topics, from AI’s influence on interpersonal interactions to the ethical concerns within education (Abdous, 2023). By studying these issues from different perspectives, institutions can better understand the complex advantages and disadvantages that AI presents in higher education and beyond.

Considering everything, the integration of AI in higher education is rapidly advancing, bringing both potential advantages and disadvantages. While AI can enhance certain areas, jobs, and aspects of higher education, it can also diminish them and pose various concerns and fears. To help combat these things, institutions must engage in open and transparent discussions to understand AI’s benefits and limitations. Ultimately, higher education institutions need to proactively adapt and strategically leverage AI technologies while prioritizing ethical considerations and safeguarding the interests of students, faculty, and the broader community.

If you an specific questions about AI and its uses at SCSU, please reach out the SCSU Online via email.  If you are interested in learning about the AI tools and software available at SCSU contact us for more information via email or through Bookings.

Additional Reading:

For more information on any of the following topics, please check out our previous blog articles.

  • How Educational Technology Can Improve the Exam Experience
  • The Metaverse and the Virtual Campus for Online Learning
  • Software in the Classroom and Its Approval for Use
References:

Abdous, M. (2023, March 21). How AI is shaping the future of higher ed. Inside Higher Ed.
https://www.insidehighered.com/views/2023/03/22/how-ai-shaping-future-higher-ed-opinion

Cameron, J. M. (2020). Person writing on notebook [Photograph]. Pexels.
https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-writing-on-notebook-4144923/

Crompton, H., & Burke, D. (2023). Artificial intelligence in higher education: the state of the field. International Journal of
Educational Technology in Higher Education, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-023-00392-8

Pisica, A. I., Edu, T., Zaharia, R. M., & Zaharia, R. (2023). Implementing artificial intelligence in higher education:
Pros and cons from the perspectives of academics. Societies, 13(5), 118. https://doi.org/10.3390/soc13050118

Power, R. (2024, February 4). 3 innovative use cases for AI in higher education. Forbes.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/rhettpower/2024/02/04/3-innovative-case-uses-for-ai-in-higher-education/?sh=4c1474bd29f8

 

Nirajan Rijal is currently working as a Graduate Assistant in the SCSU Online & Distance Learning department. He has more than 3 years of working experience in data analysis. Apart from his professional background, he loves to travel and learn about different cultures. In his travels, he tries different foods and wants to mindfully and spiritually experience different places.

Learning Technology Integrations

How Educational Technology Can Improve the Exam Experience

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Exams are becoming more accessible, safe, and entertaining through educational technology, which is changing education. Institutions are improving the exam experience by providing a variety of modalities, utilizing Learning Management Systems (LMS), and employing interactive questions and ethical AI content. 

The way we approach education and exams has changed dramatically in the last several years. Exam accessibility has increased due to the integration of education technology, which has also improved the quality of education at an entire institution. Educational institutions have provided various course and exam modalities in response to the changing environment. These forms come in hybrid, online, and in-person versions. This flexibility allows students to choose the format that best aligns with their needs and learning style. These advancements in technology have made exams more accessible and positively impacted the overall educational experience. Institutions can leverage LMS platforms to improve the exam experience. 

Leveraging Learning Management Systems (LMS) for the Overall Exam Experience 

LMS platforms provide a flexible environment for designing exams that accommodate diverse learning needs. Teachers can create assessments ranging from multiple-choice questions to essay formats, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of student’s understanding. Moreover, the accessibility features inherent in LMS platforms ensure that exams can be accessed and completed remotely, promoting inclusivity, and enabling students to take assessments regardless of their location or circumstances.  

LMS platforms allow for the integration of multimedia elements into exams. Teachers can incorporate videos, audio clips, images, and interactive content, using Kaltura and H5P, to create more engaging and comprehensive assessments (Thakare, 2017). This integration of diverse resources not only enhances the exam experience but also caters to varied learning styles, enriching the overall learning journey. 

The adaptive nature of LMS platforms enables personalized assessments tailored to individual student progress. Through features like branching logic and adaptive quizzing, exams can dynamically adjust difficulty levels based on student’s responses, offering a more customized evaluation. 

By leveraging the capabilities of LMS platforms, educational institutions can redefine the exam experience. These digital ecosystems offer a transformative approach to assessments, fostering adaptability, accessibility, and personalization. As institutions continue to harness the potential of these platforms, the exam landscape evolves, creating an environment where assessments become not just evaluative tools but opportunities for enriched and engaged learning experiences. 

 Creating an Engaging Exam Experience

Authentic evaluations require students to acquire abilities like problem-solving and creative thinking, which go beyond typical tests. They provide students with several options for showcasing their knowledge. These assessments can include different applications, techniques, and tools. 

  • Using Varied Applications: Computer software allows students to gain real-world experience. For instance, accounting students can use Microsoft Excel to produce a balance sheet. Virtual presentations provide students with the ability to simulate real-world situations. For instance, business students can make a sales proposal using Zoom or Kaltura. Written assignments have students write essays using standard pen and paper or using digital resources. 
  • Using Different Techniques: Assessments have undergone a revolution because of interactive questions, which let students show their understanding in a variety of ways. For example, within Kaltura video-based exam questions, answers can be used to make the evaluation process more interesting and real. Kaltura also has the option of incorporating hotspots into a video exam for further student engagement.  
  • Using Third-Party Tools: More dynamic methods of evaluating student’s knowledge are provided by third-party programs, which also give a variety of possibilities for designing interesting exam experiences. The university has partnerships with various textbook companies (Cengage, Pearson, Wiley, etc.) that are integrated into D2L. This integration allows faculty to access composition exam materials and students access to exam aids. 
  • AI Generated Exam content:  Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has created new opportunities successful successfully designing dynamic, interesting, and effective exam experiences. Teachers are using AI tools more often to create exam questions that are not only multiple-choice. Artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools can produce case studies, problem-solving scenarios, and simulations that replicate real-world situations (Keith, 2023).  Through these types of exam questions/prompts, students are encouraged to apply their knowledge in real-world situations through this immersive method of assessment.  By doing so, students can deepen their understanding and develop their critical thinking abilities for the subject matter.
Other (Non-Technological) Ways to Improve the Exam Experience 

For students to succeed, it is imperative that they are adequately prepared for online assessments. Here are some crucial things to remember: 

  • Reduce Anxiety: Students who study well usually experience less anxiety during tests. This can be facilitated by having a clear understanding of the examination procedure and expectations.
  • Clear Expectations: Reducing ambiguity during online exams can be accomplished by being open and honest with students about what to expect.
  • Practice Exams: Providing practice exams helps students get comfortable with the testing environment, which lowers anxiety and makes for a more seamless exam experience. 

The exam experience has been transformed by educational technology, which has increased its effectiveness, accessibility, and engagement. Through the use of AI-generated content, LMS platforms, and interactive question types, teachers may design exams that accommodate a variety of learning styles and foster a deeper comprehension of the subject matter. Exams will transform from being merely tools for evaluation into chances for students to demonstrate their knowledge and acquire critical skills necessary for success in a world that is changing at a rapid pace if educational institutions continue to adopt these technological developments. 

If you are interesting in how to best leverage AI to create content for exams or any learning content, please let us know.  We can provide you with strategies for proper use, the best way to address it with your students, or even what to expect.  The SCSU Online and Distance Learning team can get you started, just reach out to us via email or through Bookings. 

Additional Reading:

For more information on any of the following topics, please check out our previous blog articles.

 

References: 

Anderson, T. (2008). Teaching in an online learning context. The Theory and Practice of Online Learning (2nd ed.) (pp.484). Athabasca University Press. https://doi.org/10.15215/aupress/9781897425084.01 

Kampus Production. (2020) Serious young woman with diverse groupmates working on laptops in library [Photograph]. Pexels. https://www.pexels.com/photo/serious-young-woman-with-diverse-groupmates-working-on-laptops-in-library-5940712/ 

Keith, T. (2023, January 23). Combating academic dishonesty, part 6: CHATGPT, AI, and academic integrity. Academic Technology Solutions. https://academictech.uchicago.edu/2023/01/23/combating-academic-dishonesty-part-6-chatgpt-ai-and-academic-integrity/ 

Sarker, M. N. I., Wu, M., Qian, C., Alam, G. M., & Li, D. (2019). Leveraging digital technology for better learning and education: A systematic literature review. International Journal of Information and Education Technology, 9, 453-461. doi:10.18178/ijiet.2019.9.7.1246. 

Thakare, R. (2017). 10 things you need to know when choosing a learning management system. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/10-things-need-know-choosing-learning-management-system 

Alekhya Jonnagaddala, is a Graduate Assistant at the Online and Distance Learning Department at Saint Cloud State University. She is pursuing a master’s in information assurance (MSIA). She has worked in the IT industry for 2 years as a Software Engineer and spends her leisure time cooking.