The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education is not only transforming student learning but also reshaping faculty teaching methods and administrative tasks. Recent surveys shed light on how faculty members are adapting to and perceiving this technological shift.

Increasing AI Adoption

Surveys indicate that while AI adoption among faculty is increasing, it still lags behind student usage. A survey by Ellucian found that 93% of higher education staff expect to expand their use of AI over the next two years. However, the Digital Education Council’s 2025 Global AI Faculty Survey revealed that while 61% of faculty have used AI in teaching, 88% do so minimally. This suggests a cautious approach to integrating AI into teaching practices.

AI Applications in Teaching

Faculty are exploring various ways to use AI in their work, including:

• Curriculum Design: AI assists in designing more effective and engaging curricula by analyzing student data and identifying learning gaps.

• Administrative Workflows: AI automates repetitive tasks like grading and scheduling, freeing up time for teaching and research.

• Enhancing Teaching Practices: AI creates personalized learning experiences and provides targeted feedback to students.

• Personalizing Learning: AI-powered platforms tailor content and activities to individual student needs, enhancing the learning experience.

Concerns and Challenges

Faculty members express concerns about the accuracy and ethical implications of AI. Issues such as bias in AI models, data security, and the potential for AI to undermine academic integrity and critical thinking skills are prominent. A survey of faculty at Northeastern University highlighted concerns about cheating and over-reliance on AI tools.

The Need for AI Competencies

Many faculty members feel they are at the beginning of their AI literacy journey, with only a small percentage considering themselves advanced or expert users. This underscores the need for institutions to invest in training and resources to help faculty develop the competencies needed to thrive in an AI-driven educational environment.

Regional Differences in Attitudes

Interestingly, surveys reveal regional differences in attitudes toward AI. Faculty in the US and Canada tend to have a more negative view of AI compared to other regions, with concerns about job security and varying levels of exposure to AI technologies.

Conclusion

AI is poised to significantly impact higher education, offering both opportunities and challenges for faculty. Institutions must proactively address concerns about AI while promoting its potential benefits. This includes developing clear policies and guidelines for AI use, providing training and support for faculty, and fostering a culture of responsible AI adoption. By doing so, faculty can effectively integrate AI into their teaching practices, enhancing both their own work and the learning experiences of their students.