Advancing continuous professional development for equitable and ethical AI integration in higher education

Abstract

This position paper explores the current landscape and future directions of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) aimed at integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) equitably and ethically into higher education. As AI technology rapidly advances, higher education institutions face significant opportunities to enhance educational practices, alongside complex challenges including ethical considerations and disparities in technological access. Through analysis of current practices, the paper highlights existing gaps in equitable access to quality AI-related CPD programmes and calls for a shift from narrow, generative AI focus towards broader educational transformations driven by AI. Two pivotal drivers of change are presented: balancing human-centred versus technology-centred approaches to AI, and addressing equity disparities in access to AI technology. Four future scenarios illustrate potential trajectories of AI integration in academia, each reflecting different balances of technological advancement and equity considerations. Emphasising the need for proactive, universally beneficial strategies, the paper outlines four "no-regret" recommendations for universities: championing ethical AI development, investing in inclusive AI education, promoting human-centred AI research, and fostering a supportive cultural shift towards AI integration. Grounded in evidence from Europe and Asia, the paper underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among academia, industry, and policymakers to ensure AI technologies empower all learners equitably, responsibly, and sustainably.