Artificial intelligence and higher education

This chapter examines the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, with a particular focus on UK institutions and business postgraduate students. It traces the evolution of AI, from early machine learning and deep learning developments to the recent rise of generative AI, and highlights its application in diverse learning technologies such as chatbots, intelligent tutoring systems, and adaptive learning platforms. While AI offers significant benefits, its rapid adoption also presents challenges. Moreover, ethical concerns related to privacy, bias, transparency, and accountability remain underexplored, particularly regarding their influence on learning outcomes. Guided by three interrelated research questions, this study critically investigates which AI technologies best support different learning modes, the ethical implications of their use, and how these ethical considerations affect students’ learning experiences, thereby offering insights into the responsible integration of AI in higher education.