Artificial intelligence and universities: what futures?

Universities, as centres of knowledge creation and promoters of responsible innovation, are often trusted as a source in demystifying and advancing artificial intelligence. But as exploration into new technologies intensifies, discoveries multiply and universities, like all societal actors, must contend with the obvious and less obvious consequences of the application of new knowledge.

The adoption of AI has the potential to change the everyday reality of many university communities. Some of the more welcome advancements include personalised learning, data-driven governance and AI as a partner in education and research. But in spite of their apparent merits, universities must remain alert to the longer-term implications of AI and consider the many conceivable futures for universities in the AI era.

Through guided discussion, workshop participants will address some of the potential consequences of an overreliance on AI:

• Will AI render traditional learning pathways and the university model obsolete?
• Will overly externalising competences lead to diminished capacity for critical thinking?
• Will the disruption to relationships and communities ultimately precipitate a dehumanisation of society?
• Or, more optimistically, should AI be understood as simply another tool to empower (rather than replace) humans in university management, scholarship and scientific endeavour?

Participation in the workshop is open to representatives of EUA members in a leadership position or overseeing the institution-wide integration of digital technologies. The workshop is designed to facilitate exchange through active, creative and expansive contribution from participants.

Applicants are invited to express their interest by 15 October, outlining their professional experience in digitalisation/AI adoption, including notable developments undertaken at institutional level. Participants will be selected with due consideration for the diversity of EUA’s membership.