Embracing AI for Active Learning in Higher Education

In recent years we have seen great growth in the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education which a 2024 Pearson report also supports. In it we are told that what we are seeing is an increase in college students which are using AI tools to better their academic performance and transform their learning experience. Also this change is a part of a large trend in education which is to not only simplify admin tasks via AI but also to see AI play a key role in improving student engagement and learning results.

AI-Enhanced Learning: A move from passive to active engagement.

In the report we see that which is reports’ main point of focus is the increase in use of AI powered tools by students which they in turn are using to practice more involved and effective study strategies. We see that which do very well at what they are active learning methods like note taking, self testing, and spaced practice in which it is proven that they do better at what they are at -- which is improving information retention and deepening of conceptual understanding. Also reported is that which adopt these AI tools into their study routines see great academic success.

Students reported to have used AI study tools had a report of 4 time’s out performance of active study methods as opposed to those which did not. Also this is a large issue at hand as we see through research that active study techniques do in fact produce better results in terms of what is retained and comprehended. Also the report found out that which which adopted AI powered tools, for instance which are found in eTextbooks did better at going beyond simple memorization to which they applied higher order cognitive skills such as analysis, evaluation, and application of info.

AI and Higher-Order Thinking: Improving mental focus and engagement.

AI’s role in promoting critical thinking is also a report high point. In the case of the Campbell Biology course we saw that 38% of student interaction with the AI powered study tool was of a higher cognitive level. This included that students were applying, analyzing, or evaluating the info which in turn shows that AI does support in depth cognitive engagement.

Also in 25% of cases we see that which is put forth by students is analysis and evaluation elements that are related to critical thinking. This means that AI is beyond just delivery of info it is also playing a role in the development of critical thinking in students which is a key to do well in academia and in a career.

Flashcards and Engagement: AI’s Place in Study Tools.

The report also noted that we see great results from AI created flashcards which did see large increases in student engagement. We found that which students that used AI in their eTextbooks had almost triple the rate of return and consistent practice as compared to that of traditional study methods. This greater engagement is key in reinforcement of material which in turn causes students to retain main concepts better over time.

Faculty Embrace AI to Enhance Teaching

In the report we see that which is also the case that faculty are turning to AI to improve what they do in the classroom. In a survey of almost 3500 U.S. faculty members we find that 77% express an interest in bringing AI into the classroom. As for what they are interested in doing, we see that by large they are into the idea of AI which is to create more material for them to use in the class that is the case for 41% of faculty. Also 40% of the faculty are into the idea of using AI for tutoring in the class and we see that 39% are into using AI to put together instructional content and do lesson planing.

Faculty also reported that they are into developing AI which produces study tools like outlines, flash cards and practice tests. These tools which are put forth by AI are meant to be additional resources for students to do better in their studies to help them out with tough concepts and do better in prep for exams.

Conclusion: AI as a force for academic change.

Pearson’s research reports that which AI is at a turning point in higher education. Through improved active learning, promotion of critical thinking, and increased student engagement AI is transforming what we see in the classroom and the professor’s role. As a tool which has the ability to improve academic results and at the same time increase efficiency in the classroom AI is becoming an excellent partner in our quest for better education.

As AI grows in its development it is seeing greater adoption in the classroom which in turn brings great opportunity for us to improve the learning experience. For students AI tools put the power of design in their hands which in turn will see them take a more active role in their growth. For educators AI is bringing in new methods to enhance material and support students throughout their academic growth. The future of higher education is certainly to be defined by AI which is in fact the beginning of a new era of very personal and engaging learning.