Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, and education is no exception. While some universities hesitate due to concerns over data privacy and academic integrity, failing to integrate AI into learning is now considered a disservice to students.

At CanvasCon 2024, Ryan Lufkin, Vice President of Global Academic Strategy at Instructure, stated:

“Students will go on to get jobs where they use AI… if you’re not preparing them because of fears of AI then you’re doing them a disservice.”

With AI becoming integral to modern workplaces, universities must ensure students are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed.

The Demand for AI in Education

A 2024 survey of nearly 3,000 students and instructors found that:

• 45% of students already use AI, compared to only 15% of instructors.
• 58% of students feel they lack sufficient AI knowledge and skills.
• 48% of students do not feel adequately prepared for an AI-driven workplace.
• Nearly 75% of students expect their universities to offer AI literacy courses.

This data highlights a clear gap between student expectations and institutional readiness. While students are embracing AI, many universities lack structured AI education and policies.

Challenges in AI Adoption

Despite its benefits, many universities remain hesitant. According to Martin Bean CBE, institutions face four key challenges:

1. Rapid AI Advancements – Keeping up with evolving AI technologies is difficult.
2. Lack of Policy and Regulation – 36% of European institutions have yet to develop AI usage guidelines.
3. Uncertainty About AI Models – Universities struggle to choose which AI tools to integrate.
4. Concerns Over Academic Misuse – Fears of AI-generated content being misused in education.

Bean encourages institutions to experiment, take risks, and adapt to these changes, rather than delay integration.

The Benefits of AI in Education

When used responsibly, AI can improve learning experiences and make education more accessible and personalised.

• Personalised Learning – AI tailors content to individual needs, improving student engagement.
• Enhanced Accessibility – AI-powered tools help students with disabilities and language barriers.
• Data-Driven Insights – AI analyses student performance, providing real-time feedback.
• Efficiency for Educators – AI automates grading and administrative tasks, freeing up time for teaching.

Leading institutions such as Stanford, Arizona State University, and UMGC are already integrating AI-driven immersive learning and VR classrooms to improve student engagement and retention.

Unyted: A Complete AI-Powered Learning Platform

AI in education is about more than just tools; it requires a complete digital ecosystem that enhances collaboration, accessibility, and engagement. Unyted provides this with:

• 3D Virtual Classrooms – Interactive environments that improve engagement.
• AI-Powered Learning – Personalised student support and automated workflows.
• Seamless Collaboration – Video conferencing, screen sharing, and real-time discussions.
• Data Security & Compliance – A GDPR- and MiCA-compliant platform ensuring privacy.

Tesseract Academy: A New Standard for AI-Powered Learning

Unyted has partnered with Tesseract Academy, a leader in data science, AI, and blockchain education. Their new virtual learning space includes:

• Six Virtual Course Rooms
• Co-Studying & Breakout Areas
• A Fully Interactive 3D InfoHub

This innovative space allows for interactive learning, networking, and AI-driven course personalisation.

The Future of AI in Education

AI in education is no longer a choice; it is a necessity. Universities that fail to adapt risk leaving students unprepared for the modern workforce.

At Unyted, we help institutions integrate AI and immersive learning into their digital strategy.

Book a free consultation today to explore how AI-powered virtual spaces can transform education and improve student outcomes.