The debate on the use of artificial intelligence in education has reached a new level. In the latest issue of Nature magazine, one of the world's most respected scientific publications, an article was published that analyzes how universities are dealing with the rapid expansion of generative AI tools, and the challenges that arise when they become part of everyday academic life.
Professor Maurício Garcia provides a summary of the main points raised by the report and reflects on the impact of this transformation on higher education.
Growing use
By 2024, 86% of university students regularly used generative AI tools like ChatGPT for academic tasks, including writing, explaining concepts and analyzing data, with greater adoption in science, technology, engineering and math courses.
Concerns
Educators fear that excessive use of AI will damage learning, leading to a false sense of understanding, reduced critical thinking and excessive dependence on technology. Studies indicate that students who use AI may have lower brain activity related to learning and worse long-term retention of content.
Institutional responses
While some universities, such as Tsinghua and Ohio State, have incorporated AI into their curricula and teaching systems, others face challenges in establishing clear policies, resulting in confusion among students. Countries such as Australia have adopted coordinated national responses to integrate and regulate the use of AI in education.
Educational potential
Research indicates that, when used properly, AI can improve learning by encouraging critical thinking and active problem solving, as demonstrated in controlled trials with AI tutors at Harvard.
Rethinking education
Experts are calling for a reformulation of university teaching, focusing less on memorization and more on developing skills such as judgment, criticism, collaboration and responsible use of AI. There is also a call for universities to exercise greater leadership in regulation and partnership with technology companies to ensure ethical and effective tools.
Reflections on the future of education
The Nature study reinforces a truth already perceived in classrooms: AI is a tool and a game changer in the way we learn and teach. But its impact depends entirely on how we use it.
If applied critically, AI can broaden horizons and democratize access to knowledge. If used without purpose, it can weaken intellectual autonomy and curiosity, the two foundations of any educational process.
At Inteli, we believe that the education of the future will be guided by this balance: technology at the service of human thought. Our commitment is to train professionals who understand AI as a powerful ally to expand capabilities, solve complex problems and act responsibly.
