According to the recent 2023-2024 Digital Learning Pulse Survey conducted by Cengage and Bay View Analytics, higher education institutions may not be fully prepared for the impact of generative AI tools in the next five years. The survey involved 201 trustees, 1,126 faculty and administrators, and 2,229 students from over 1,200 higher education institutions in the U.S.
The survey revealed that while almost 95% of respondents expected generative AI tools to bring about changes in their institutions, the majority anticipated these changes to be small or moderate. Only 7% to 10% predicted a massive amount of change. Despite the potential benefits of Gen AI in education, the survey indicated that many institutions feel unprepared to fully leverage this technology.
Kimberly Russell, Cengage’s vice president of research, emphasized the need for institutions and educational technology providers to evaluate how to integrate generative AI equitably to enhance human instruction and create personalized learning experiences. She pointed out that more work needs to be done before higher education can fully realize the benefits of this technology.
Jeff Seaman, director and lead researcher at Bay View Analytics, shared that while generative AI could help address some of the challenges in higher education, institutions must be willing to invest significant time, effort, and resources to adapt to this new technology. He highlighted the significant gap between the expected impact of Gen AI and the current readiness of organizations to adopt it.
The survey also showed that administrators are looking to address enrollment challenges by offering more online and hybrid course options. More than a third of respondents expressed interest in increasing online course offerings, while nearly half were keen on expanding hybrid options.
In conclusion, the survey findings suggest that while higher education institutions recognize the potential of generative AI tools, there is a need for more preparation and investment to fully harness the benefits of this technology. As institutions work towards integrating AI in education, it will be vital to ensure equitable and effective adoption to enhance learning experiences for all students.
