Harnessing AI in Higher Education and Society | A New Era of Critical Thinking

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming every aspect of our lives, from the way we shop to how we communicate. Now, it’s making its way into the classroom — and far from replacing educators, it’s providing us with new ways to engage students and help them think critically in a rapidly evolving world.

In a community like ours, these advancements can bridge gaps in access and open new doors for learners, while preserving the core of what education is truly about: critical thinking and problem-solving.

CRITICAL THINKING

As educators, our mission has always been to inspire students to engage deeply with the material we teach, equipping them with critical-thinking skills they’ll need in a world that changes by the minute. The rise of generative AI — a technology that can create text, images, videos and more — has amplified the importance of that mission. But rather than seeing AI as a challenge to education, we can use it as a powerful tool to accomplish our goals. The future belongs to those who can think critically alongside AI, not those who fear it.

Take, for example, a history assignment. Imagine asking students to use a generative AI tool like ChatGPT to craft a persuasive essay arguing both sides of a historical debate. Students could then analyze the AI-generated responses to identify biases, evaluate evidence and build their own well-informed arguments. This not only teaches them how to interact thoughtfully with AI but also strengthens their critical thinking and reasoning skills. Education isn’t about memorizing facts, it’s about learning how to question, analyze and create. AI can help us do that better than ever.

CLASSROOM INNOVATION

One innovative way to integrate AI into education is through platforms like HeyGen, a video creation tool powered by generative AI. HeyGen allows educators to create animated lectures using digital avatars. Think of it as having a virtual “you” that can deliver lectures in an engaging, visual format — perfect for revisiting challenging topics. Students can watch these lectures multiple times, at their own pace, which is especially valuable for complex subjects like math, science or even literature.

For instance, I recently used HeyGen to create an animated explanation of the concept of “inventory forecasting and capacity planning” in strategic management. The digital avatar walked students through a couple of illustrations, helping them grasp the topic more effectively than a single in-person lecture ever could. In a specialized area, where resources and expert instructors may be limited, tools like HeyGen can provide a consistent, high-quality learning experience for everyone.

SOCIETAL IMPACT

Beyond education, AI is reshaping society in profound ways. It enhances healthcare by assisting in diagnosing diseases, personalizing treatments and streamlining administrative tasks, allowing doctors to focus more on patient care. In agriculture, AI-powered sensors and drones help farmers monitor crops, predict yields and optimize irrigation, increasing efficiency and reducing waste — critical benefits for rural communities.

AI is also revolutionizing the workforce. Automation and AI-driven systems are transforming industries like manufacturing, logistics and customer service. While this shift presents challenges, such as job displacement, it also creates opportunities by generating demand for new skills and roles. By integrating AI education early, we prepare students for an evolving job market where human creativity, adaptability and strategic thinking are invaluable.

Moreover, AI is improving accessibility and communication. Tools like voice recognition software, real-time translation apps and assistive technologies empower people with disabilities and bridge language barriers, making information and services more inclusive for diverse populations.

DIGITAL LITERACY

Another way AI can enhance education is by teaching students how to interact responsibly with technology. Generative AI can produce incredible content, but it’s not always accurate. By exposing students to AI tools in a controlled educational environment, we can teach them to question and verify information rather than accept it at face value.

For example, in a media studies class, students might use AI to generate a news article on a trending topic. Their task could then involve fact-checking the content against credible sources, discussing where the AI got it right and where it went wrong. This exercise not only builds critical thinking but also fosters digital literacy — a skill that is increasingly vital in today’s information-saturated world.

ACCESSIBILITY

In rural areas, where access to resources can be limited, AI offers transformative possibilities. Virtual tutoring powered by AI can provide personalized support for students who struggle in specific subjects. Tools like Khan Academy’s AI-powered assistant can help students with math problems, explaining each step in detail until they fully understand the concept.

Additionally, AI can make education more inclusive. Text-to-speech and speech-to-text technologies can assist students with disabilities, while translation tools can break language barriers for non-native speakers. These applications ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn and succeed, regardless of their circumstances.

WORKPLACE SKILLS

The integration of AI in education isn’t just about improving the learning experience, it’s about preparing students for a future where AI will play an integral role in almost every industry. By exposing students to AI tools and teaching them how to use these responsibly, we’re equipping them with skills that will be invaluable in the workplace.

For instance, students learning graphic design could use AI tools like DALL-E to create visual concepts, while engineering students might use AI-powered simulation software to test their designs. By understanding how to collaborate with AI, students can become innovators and leaders in their respective fields.

ENHANCED EDUCATION

While the possibilities of AI are exciting, it’s important to approach its integration thoughtfully. AI should enhance education, not replace the human connections that make learning meaningful. Teachers are more than information deliverers; they are mentors, motivators and role models. AI can support these roles by handling repetitive tasks, such as grading or providing instant feedback on assignments, freeing up educators to focus on what they do best: inspiring and guiding students. AI won’t replace educators, but educators who use AI will transform the future.

Moreover, we must address ethical considerations, such as data privacy and the potential for over-reliance on technology. By establishing clear guidelines and fostering open discussions about AI’s role in education, we can ensure that it is used responsibly and effectively. AI is a tool, not a teacher — it’s up to us to guide students in using it wisely.

A BRIGHTER FUTURE

AI has the potential to revolutionize education and society in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. For our community, it represents an opportunity to overcome barriers, enhance learning experiences and prepare our students for a globalized, AI-driven world. By leveraging tools like HeyGen and encouraging critical engagement with generative AI, we can empower our students to think deeply, adapt to change and succeed in the future.

The heart of education will always be about fostering curiosity, critical thinking and a love for learning. AI is not here to replace that mission — it’s here to help us achieve it in new and innovative ways.