CUEngineering

Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly Generative AI (GenAI), has emerged as a profoundly disruptive technology, simultaneously transforming various facets of our lives. In the realm of education, the impact of AI is particularly noteworthy, ushering in a new era of possibilities under the umbrella of AI4Education. This transformative technology has fundamentally altered and shaped how knowledge is created and disseminated, reshaping traditional pedagogical approaches and enhancing the overall teaching and learning experience for both learners and educators.

In response to inquiries regarding the university’s stance on AI4Education, I am pleased to share my perspectives as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education). In this context, I intend to provide you with a comprehensive overview of AI4Education and the university’s initiatives to promote the responsible use of AI in education. Specifically, I will highlight several key points in the recently implemented policy regarding the utilization of AI in teaching, learning, and assessment.

AI in Education

AI has transformative potential in education by enhancing three critical areas: (1) content creation and knowledge dissemination, (2) innovative pedagogy to deliver the content, and (3) assessment to validate the efficacy of the knowledge being transmitted. Let’s examine these areas in more detail in the following paragraphs.

AI in Content Creastion and Knowledge Dissemination

In the domain of content creation and knowledge dissemination, AI tools can assist educators and learners alike by generating customized lesson plans, study guides, multimedia presentations, and interactive resources that accommodate diverse learning preferences and proficiency levels. This capability not only diminishes the preparation time for educators but also augments the learning experience for students. One of the most promising advancements in education is AI’s capacity to generate high-quality, personalized learning materials, including interactive lessons and quizzes. By utilizing GenAI, educators can design resources that align with individual student preferences, thereby fostering enhanced engagement and motivation among all learners.

AI in Innovative Pedagogy

AI supports innovative teaching methods that enhance pedagogy, including active learning, adaptive learning platforms, gamified lessons, and virtual simulations. These approaches engage students more deeply and cater to their individual needs. By utilizing AI-driven tools, educators can implement adaptive learning systems that respond in real-time to students' progress, offering customized support and resources. This shift towards student-centered methodologies ensures that knowledge dissemination is both effective and engaging, empowering students to take ownership of their learning journeys while fostering critical thinking and collaboration.

AI in Assessment

AI enhances assessment practices by providing objective and efficient evaluation methods for both educators and learners. Traditional assessments often struggle to capture a comprehensive understanding of students' abilities, but AI-powered tools analyze diverse data to offer insights beyond simple test scores. These tools can identify learning gaps, provide immediate feedback, and suggest targeted interventions, ensuring that educational goals are exceeded. By automating grading and adjusting instruction based on learner data, AI fosters a more personalized and dynamic educational environment for all.

Limitations of AI

While AI has the potential to transform education by personalizing learning experiences and providing instant feedback, it also presents several limitations and shortcomings. One major concern is the risk of bias in AI algorithms, which can perpetuate inequalities and lead to unfair treatment of students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, an over-reliance on AI tools may undermine critical thinking and creativity, as students might prioritize quick answers over deeper understanding. Moreover, the misuse of AI for surveillance purposes in educational settings raises ethical questions about privacy and consent. Furthermore, the digital divide means that not all students have equal access to AI resources, potentially exacerbating existing educational disparities. Lastly, educators may lack the necessary training to effectively integrate AI into their teaching practices, leading to ineffective implementation and diminished educational outcomes.

In summary, the integration of AI and GenAI into education is transforming the approach to teaching and learning. By revolutionizing content creation, promoting innovative pedagogies, and enhancing assessment practices, AI4Education is not merely a trend but an essential component of contemporary educational paradigms. As we continue to harness the potential of AI, we anticipate further advancements that will further enrich the educational landscape, equipping students for an increasingly intricate and interconnected global environment. Let us now examine this phenomenon in the context of our university.

AI @ The Chinese University of Hong Kong

CUHK stands at the forefront of innovation and education in AI, spearheading several significant projects and initiatives that drive advancements in the field. Notably, CUHK’s recent ranking of 7th in both the discipline of Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science by the US News and World Report 2026 underscores its exceptional excellence in these domains.

CUHK actively hosts two platforms that foster collaboration between academia and industry: Health@InnoHK and AIR@InnoHK. These platforms feature centers such as the Centre for Perceptual and Interactive Intelligence and the Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Centre, which serve as collaborative hubs for innovation in AI technologies and applications.

Furthermore, the CUHK Jockey Club AI for the Future Project aims to integrate AI education into pre-university curricula, empowering youth with AI literacy. In the medical field, the Medical AI Foundation Model Initiative is developing a globally representative model using 100 million eye images to enhance innovations in ophthalmology.

Beyond these initiatives, CUHK’s Faculty of Law has explored AI applications in legal practice through an “AI x Law” showcase. Additionally, projects in language teaching focus on supporting Chinese language education with AI-driven tools.

To enhance AI literacy among faculty and students, CUHK conducts workshops and seminars. These sessions equip individuals with essential tools for academic research and teaching, including discussions on ethical considerations surrounding AI technology.

Guidelines on the Use of AI

To facilitate the use of AI in education, the University has established clear and comprehensive guidelines on “The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in teaching, learning, and assessments” to uphold academic honesty and enhance educational quality. The policy outlines four distinct approaches to AI tool usage in coursework, ranging from complete prohibition to unrestricted use with or without acknowledgment, depending on the course requirements and pedagogical goals. Students are required to strictly follow instructions regarding AI use, including transparent disclosure and proper citation of AI-generated content. The guidelines emphasize ethical principles such as accountability, transparency, data privacy, and fairness in accessing AI tools. Misuse or unauthorized use of AI constitutes academic dishonesty and is subject to serious penalties, including failure of courses or suspension. The policy encourages critical AI literacy among students to understand AI’s strengths and limitations and stresses continuous review to adapt to technological advancements.

Given the complexities and evolving nature of AI, it is crucial for students and staff to be thoroughly knowledgeable about the University’s policies on AI use. When in doubt about any aspect of employing AI in academic or professional work, individuals are strongly encouraged to seek clarification by asking questions to avoid unintentional breaches. Being well-informed and exercising caution will help maintain academic integrity and ensure AI is used ethically and responsibly in line with university standards.

AI Literacy for All

The University needs to enhance its efforts in promoting AI literacy among teachers, students, and staff by expanding the reach and frequency of professional development programs focused on AI pedagogy, ethics, and practical applications. While CUHK has organized seminars and workshops addressing AI literacy and responsible AI use, there is a need for more systematic, ongoing training that equips educators with the skills to integrate AI effectively into diverse curricula and teaching contexts. Additionally, fostering a culture where learners across all faculties can access hands-on AI learning experiences and ethical awareness is vital to prepare them for a rapidly evolving AI-driven society. The University could also benefit from building stronger multidisciplinary collaborations and increasing community outreach to raise AI literacy beyond academia, ensuring a more inclusive and widespread understanding of AI. Emphasizing continuous evaluation and feedback mechanisms will help improve AI literacy initiatives and ensure they keep pace with the fast development of AI technologies.

Concluding Remarks

AI promises to revolutionize education by personalizing learning, engaging students, and making education more accessible. AI-driven adaptive learning systems tailor instruction to individual needs, closing achievement gaps and fostering motivation. Teachers can focus on creative teaching while AI automates administrative tasks. Real-time feedback and data analytics help educators identify student progress and intervene promptly. AI-powered tools enhance accessibility for diverse learners, promoting equity. To maximize AI’s benefits, balance innovation with ethical considerations and continuous professional development. Your feedback on integrating AI in teaching and learning is crucial for responsible, effective, and inclusive AI use that benefits the education community. I hope my tenure as PVC (Education) will champion transformation in education, inspire excellence in teaching and learning, and empower learners and educators everywhere!

Introduction