AI, Higher Education, innovation, policy, assessment, ethics
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the UK's higher education sector, impacting decision-making, policy development, knowledge exchange, operational processes, student recruitment, satisfaction, and notably, student assessment. This study explores AI's contributions in these domains, emphasizing its potential to foster innovation, enhance creativity, and elevate institutional reputations. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines qualitative analyses of institutional case studies with published surveys of administrators, faculty, and students. Preliminary findings indicate that AI enhances decision-making efficiency by providing data-driven insights, streamlining policy formulation and strategic planning. In student assessment, AI-driven tools offer personalized feedback and adaptive testing environments, leading to improved performance and higher success rates. However, challenges persist, including ethical considerations related to data privacy, potential biases in AI algorithms, and resistance to technological adoption among staff and students. To address these challenges, the study recommends strategies for mitigating risks of AI implementation such as the development of comprehensive AI governance frameworks prioritizing ethical standards and data security. By embracing AI, UK higher education institutions can improve operational efficiency and educational outcomes, thereby bolstering their reputations as pioneers in academic innovation
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