Technology and AI in Higher Ed: What Are Other Educators Saying?

The landscape of higher education is constantly evolving, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this change. How are educators adapting, and how do they foresee it being incorporated and used in the classroom? Our recent 2025 Higher Ed Trends Report offers some compelling insights into the current state and future expectations of technology and the use of AI in the classroom.

The Current State: Digital Technology as a Complement, Not a Replacement

A majority of educators (56%) view online learning in STEM as a valuable complement to traditional teaching methods. While technology is widely accepted in higher ed, a full shift to digital-only instruction is not yet the norm. This blended approach helps instructors use technology while maintaining personal connection and interactive teaching elements.

The Future of AI in Higher Ed: Disruption and Innovation?

Despite the reliance on blended learning, a significant portion of educators anticipate further disruption and innovation in the coming years.

• 25% of first-year educators believe digital-only instruction will eventually become the primary mode of teaching.
• Graduate instructors (23%) and second-year instructors (20%) predict AI will bring significant disruption to education.
• Canadian educators are more optimistic about this shift, with 49% expecting a move toward digital-focused learning.

AI’s growing presence in the classroom signals a shift toward adaptive learning and personalized instruction—all of which could change how education is delivered in the coming years.

Navigating the AI Conversation: Policy, Guidelines, and Training

Survey respondents highlighted the need for guidance and support from their institution on how AI should be implemented. Many educators are waiting for clear policies and guidelines from their institutions before fully embracing AI. Once these frameworks are in place, professional development opportunities and ongoing training will be crucial for successful implementation. The Top Priorities: Technology, Skills, and Content Delivery When asked to rank the most significant changes expected in the next five years, educators consistently placed the evolving role of technology in the classroom at the top of their list. This underscores the growing recognition of technology’s transformative potential. Following closely behind are the shifts in the skills and knowledge students will need for success, and the evolution of content delivery and teaching methods.

Moving Forward: Embracing the Digital Change

The 2025 Higher Ed Trends Report paints a picture of an educational landscape on the cusp of significant change. While blended learning remains prevalent, the increasing influence of digital-only instruction is shaping the future of education. The anticipated disruption of AI is also a clear indicator of the direction education is heading. As institutions develop clear policies and provide training, educators will be better equipped to use AI for effective learning. The future of education is linked to technology, making it essential to embrace change for student success.