AI is changing job roles in higher education

Today, most universities handle a huge amount of data. They use it to manage student admissions, exam processes, academic records, degree checks, and official reports.

- MAMIDALA JAGADESH KUMAR

Artificial Intelligence has become an essential component of the higher education system over the last few years. The 2024 Times Higher Education survey found that nearly 60% of university professors now use AI tools in their work. UNESCO recently said AI is “changing how teachers teach faster than any education reform in decades.” We should now ask: Will Indian universities watch this change happen, or will they help shape the future of AI-enabled education nationwide?

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 seeks to expand access, strengthen research, support internationalisation, and create world class institutions. However, we can achieve these goals only when our universities and colleges prepare for AI-integrated academic work. Those who adapt will thrive. Those who resist will fall behind.

There is a misconception that AI threatens the role of teachers. In fact, global research shows the opposite. Teachers are becoming more essential because learning requires human guidance, judgment, and academic purpose. AI can process information. AI cannot help students in character building, curiosity, or critical thought. Teachers will continue to be the human interface to inspire students to acquire these values.

According to a study by the University of Melbourne, AI tools are increasingly impacting how instructors perform their jobs. Teachers spend more time now devising ways for students to learn through debates, discussions, and real life problem-solving.

The most significant shift is happening in assessment. Universities worldwide are now introducing what academic researchers call “authentic assessments.” These include oral exams, reflective assignments, in-class problem-solving exercises, applied projects, and viva-style defences that test the originality of thinking. These assessments align with the recommendations of NEP 2020 on competency-based learning.