Original Source
US University Professors Divided on AI Use in Education
The Role of AI in Higher Education
Amherst College is actively discussing the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the higher education landscape. Over recent semesters, course syllabi at the college have begun to include various changes, mentions, and cautions regarding AI use. While some classes have opted for shorter out-of-class assignments or in-class exams, professors' AI policies have varied widely. Some were more lenient, while others implemented outright bans, indicating a lack of a unified approach.
Professors' Perceptions of AI
Interviews with five professors at Amherst College revealed that many felt they had little to say on the topic of AI, suggesting an institutional absence of a unified vision on AI. This indicates that even professors, especially in humanities courses, are uncertain about how to approach AI. The college has provided students, staff, and faculty with access to three new AI services, and the Provost’s Annual Retreat on Teaching and Learning in 2024 was entirely dedicated to generative AI and the liberal arts. The interviewed professors generally acknowledged that AI is a presence that can no longer be ignored.
*Source: The Amherst Student (2026-03-25)*
