Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing Higher Education (HE) by transforming the ways in which we teach, learn, and manage academic environments. The INFINITE project is at the forefront of this revolution, preparing faculty and students to utilize AI ethically and effectively. As AI becomes increasingly ubiquitous across various sectors, the INFINITE project underscores the need to integrate AI tools with traditional teaching methods to enhance educational outcomes while addressing ethical and practical concerns.
During the initial months of the project, partners conducted a research phase to assess the current status of AI usage in HE across Europe and one of the focus countries was Greece. This phase included desk research, a systematic literature review (SLR), and surveys targeting HE academics and students. The following article presents the findings from the SLR and questionnaire responses, providing a comprehensive overview of the current applications, risks, and impacts of AI in Greek HE, as well as the challenges and skills required for effective AI integration.
Current Applications of AI-Based Tools in Greek Higher Education
The systematic literature review (SLR) synthesized findings from various Greek studies, shedding light on the current applications of AI-based tools in professional and pedagogical contexts within Greek Higher Education. One prominent application is the integration of AI chatbots into educational practices, particularly in courses such as Didactic Methodology. These chatbots enhance communication, collaboration, and overall learning outcomes by providing instant feedback and support to students.
Another significant application is the use of AI tools like ChatGPT within established educational frameworks such as Room2Educ8. These tools facilitate a range of educational activities, fostering engaging learning experiences and promoting interactive learning environments. Research and development efforts are also focusing on conversational tutors and educational chatbots, which have the potential to deliver personalized learning experiences tailored to the diverse needs of students.
AI-generated content, especially videos, plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, equity, and representation within educational contexts. These AI-generated resources are being explored for their potential to design effective learning tasks and projects that embrace diversity and enhance student engagement. Overall, the integration of AI tools in Greek HE is geared towards improving educational practices, making learning more personalized, inclusive, and engaging.
Risks of AI-Based Tools in Greek Higher Education
Despite the numerous benefits, the integration of AI-based tools in Greek HE introduces several potential risks that must be carefully considered. One major risk is the over-reliance on AI tools, which can lead to a reduction in critical thinking and problem-solving skills among both educators and students. The automation of certain tasks may diminish the need for human intervention and creativity, potentially stifling the development of innovative teaching methods.Data privacy and security concerns are also significant, especially when AI tools require access to sensitive information or personal data. The potential for biases within AI algorithms poses a risk of perpetuating inequalities or reinforcing existing biases within educational practices. Additionally, there is a risk of technological dependence, where educators may struggle to adapt or innovate without the support of AI tools, potentially hindering professional growth and development.
Impact of AI on Teaching and Learning Processes in Greek Higher Education
The adoption of AI-based tools in Greek HE has a profound impact on both university teachers and students. For teachers, AI tools can streamline various aspects of course preparation, content creation, and student engagement, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. However, there are challenges related to adapting to new technologies, managing the integration of AI tools into existing teaching practices, and ensuring that pedagogical integrity and student-centered learning approaches are maintained.
The role of teachers may shift from traditional lecturers to facilitators or guides in the learning process, emphasizing the need for continuous professional development and adaptability. For students, AI tools enhance personalized learning experiences, provide access to diverse educational resources, and support self-directed learning. However, there are concerns about the equitable distribution of AI resources, digital literacy skills, and the potential for AI tools to exacerbate existing educational inequalities.
Challenges Hindering AI Integration in Greek Higher Education
The thematic analysis of open-ended responses from the questionnaires revealed several challenges that hinder the integration of AI into daily educational practices in Greece. Educators and academic staff identified limited resources and knowledge as significant barriers, citing insufficient time for exploring AI tools, lack of formal training, and incomplete understanding of AI, particularly among non-computer scientists. Data privacy and security concerns, the overwhelming number of AI tools available, compatibility issues, and ethical concerns such as bias and the potential for AI to replace human instructors were also highlighted.
University students echoed similar challenges, emphasizing issues related to familiarity with AI tools, reliability, accuracy, and cost. They also mentioned compatibility with non-English languages, multimedia content processing, scientific validity, and data quality. Practical obstacles such as inadequate equipment, workplace support, time constraints, resistance to change, and lack of infrastructure were additional barriers identified by both groups. These challenges underscore the need for improved resources, training, and ethical guidelines to facilitate effective AI integration in educational settings.
Skills Needed for Effective AI Use in Greek Higher Education
Both educators and students expressed a need for a multifaceted skill set to effectively use AI in Greek HE. Ethical considerations emerged as a top priority for educators, with a focus on learning how to use AI ethically and safely. Students, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of technical skills such as coding and data literacy. Both groups recognized the significance of understanding AI principles and machine learning, alongside broader skills like critical thinking, structured reasoning, and collaboration.
Educators highlighted the practical applications of AI, such as creating chatbots and integrating AI into daily work, while students expressed a desire to use AI to enhance learning experiences and research skills. The responses underscored the need for a balanced skill set encompassing technical proficiency, ethical awareness, and strategic utilization of AI to enhance the educational landscape.
Desired Training Topics in Greek Higher Education
The respondents demonstrated a diverse range of interests in AI training topics, reflecting a balanced approach between ethical considerations and practical applications. Educators expressed a keen interest in understanding AI ethics, intellectual property, and security regulations, alongside a desire to enhance their technical skills for AI app creation and software development. They also emphasized the importance of learning how to effectively integrate existing AI tools into educational design and data analysis processes.
Similarly, university students highlighted the significance of foundational knowledge in Python programming and educational theory, coupled with a practical focus on creating AI tools and utilizing them for lesson design. Ethics, data privacy, and security were common concerns among both groups, underscoring the need for responsible AI use in educational contexts. Additionally, there was a shared interest in exploring AI’s potential impact on daily life and its applications in higher education, alongside a curiosity about emerging technologies such as Augmented and Virtual Reality.
Conclusion
The findings from the INFINITE project highlight the transformative potential of AI in Greek Higher Education, offering insights into its current applications, risks, and impacts. While AI tools can significantly enhance teaching and learning processes by making them more personalized, inclusive, and engaging, they also pose several challenges and risks that require careful consideration and strategic implementation.
The integration of AI in Greek HE is hindered by limited resources, knowledge, and practical obstacles, emphasizing the need for improved training, resources, and ethical guidelines. Both educators and students recognize the importance of a balanced skill set encompassing technical proficiency, ethical awareness, and strategic utilization of AI to enhance the educational landscape.
Overall, the INFINITE project underscores the importance of preparing faculty and students to use AI ethically and effectively, highlighting the need for continuous professional development, adaptability, and responsible implementation. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented by AI, Higher Education institutions in Greece can create a more dynamic, inclusive, and innovative educational environment.