Human-Centered Learning in an AI World, new article from the Chronicle
By Claire Brady, EdD
Higher education leaders, it’s time to take a closer look at how your students are actually using AI.
A recent article Chronicle of Higher Education by Beth McMurtrie, profiles college students like Allison Abeldt who’ve gone from AI-wary to AI-empowered. Far from cheating their way through classes, many students are building intelligent workflows: using ChatGPT to clarify confusing slides, summarizing dense readings with NotebookLM, making flashcards with Quizlet, and even asking AI to test their understanding or flag flaws in logic. The result? For many, it’s a lifeline—not a shortcut.
So, what does this mean for us as educators and institutional leaders? Three clear takeaways stand out:
1. Students Are Building Their Own Learning Ecosystems—With or Without Us
When students feel overwhelmed by poorly structured courses, inaccessible faculty, or a lack of academic support, they’re turning to AI for answers. Not out of laziness, but out of necessity. This includes first-gen students, working learners, and international students navigating complex content in a second language.
The actionable takeaway? Audit the friction in your academic experience. Are your learning materials accessible? Are students clear on expectations? Are you offering resources that work for commuters and caretakers, not just traditional residential students?
2. We Need to Stop Treating AI Use as an Academic Integrity Red Flag
The Chronicle article shows the emotional toll of being accused of misconduct simply for using precise language or tools like AI to study smarter. Yes, some students cheat. But the majority are using AI as a tutor, organizer, or translator—not as a ghostwriter.
Let’s shift from “gotcha” to guidance. Create clear, thoughtful AI usage policies. Build in reflective assignments where students disclose their process. Better yet, integrate AI literacy into your curriculum so students know how to use these tools responsibly and effectively.
3. The Professor’s Role Is Shifting—And Still Essential
One of the most hopeful findings in the article is this: students still want human connection. They want meaningful feedback. They want stories. They want someone who can help them make sense of the chaos. They want strong instruction.
But if your courses presume that students show up having done all the readings and no one ever asks why they haven’t—you’re missing the moment. Teaching models must evolve to reflect a world where information is abundant and context, application, and mentorship are the real value-adds.
Here’s the bottom line: AI isn’t replacing us—it’s revealing the gaps we’ve left open. This moment calls for brave, adaptive leadership. Are we going to police yesterday’s norms or lead toward a future where human connection and tech-enhanced learning can thrive side by side?
Let’s help students learn with clarity, curiosity, and compassion—AI included.
Read the full article in the Chronicle:
https://www.chronicle.com/special-projects/the-different-voices-of-student-success/ai-to-the-rescue?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=campaign_13976851_nl_Daily-Briefing_date_20250624
