Helping HE CIOs to develop more student-centred AI strategies

As AI continues to transform the global economy, higher education is no longer immune from its impact. AI has an expanding role in shaping the student experience and institutions must take proactive steps to ensure they meet the expectations of digitally-savvy learners. This is clear from the results of the Digital Education Council’s Global AI Student Survey 2024, which reveals both opportunities and challenges for HE CIOs and wider institution leadership.

Unsurprisingly, the survey shows that 86% of students are already using AI in their studies, with tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly and Microsoft Copilot among the most popular tools. Students state that they use AI for everything from searching for information (69%) to grammar checking (42%) and nearly 30% use it to draft documents. Arguably, the adoption of AI is now so widespread that universities should treat it as part of their core digital infrastructure.

But there’s an unfortunate disconnect between student needs and institutional readiness. 80% of students feel that their universities have not fully met their expectations in terms of AI integration​. Moreover, 58% of students do not feel they have sufficient AI knowledge and skills while 48% believe they have not been adequately prepared for an AI-driven workplace. 

As a result, students are calling for universities to increase AI training - both for themselves and for staff. In fact, the survey found that a staggering 72% of students expect universities to offer more courses on AI literacy, while 73% demand more staff training on integrating AI into course content.

Clearly addressing these gaps are crucial for universities to remain competitive and to boost student satisfaction scores. This also presents an opportunity for CIOs to prioritise and lead the development of AI literacy courses and training programmes across campus.

While students are eager for more AI-driven learning experiences, they are also cautious about its overuse. More than 50% are concerned that over-reliance on AI in teaching could diminish the value of their education​. With staff also concerned about students’ misuse of AI tools, it’s clear that all universities need to clearly define what should be considered as appropriate AI use.

As part of that work, it’s important for CIOs to note that students are also looking for a greater say in how AI is used in their educational journey. According to the survey, 71% of students believe universities should involve them in decision-making regarding AI tools, yet only 34% feel their input is currently valued​. Engaging students in future decisions not only empowers them but also ensures that the AI solutions implemented meet their evolving needs.

The implications of the global Digital Education Council survey are clear. Fully integrating AI into the student experience is no longer optional — the current (and future) generation of students expect it to be fully present. By proactively addressing student demands for greater AI literacy, ensuring staff are better prepared for AI integration and maintaining transparency and accountability in AI use, universities can deliver a more balanced, student-centred AI strategy. 

Academic Software is currently working with university decision-makers across Europe to develop AI strategies as part of their ongoing digital transformation.

If you’re ready to revolutionise your institution's approach to AI, schedule a free consultation with our experts now.

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