Why The greatest risk of AI in higher education matters right now

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has been a topic of much debate, with many focusing on the potential for cheating and academic dishonesty. However, a more significant concern lies in the erosion of learning itself. As universities adopt AI across various aspects of institutional life, from resource allocation to student assessment, the very fabric of education is being transformed. This shift extends far beyond the classroom, with AI tools being used to summarize and study materials, and instructors relying on them to inform their teaching practices.

Meanwhile, in the realm of animal behavior, researchers have made groundbreaking discoveries that challenge our understanding of cognitive development and social learning. A study on Australian sea lion pups has shown that they learn diving and foraging skills from their mothers, a behavior previously unknown in otariid species. This finding highlights the importance of social information transmission in the development of complex behaviors.

In another surprising revelation, a study on 2-month-old infants has found that they are able to distinguish between different objects, a cognitive ability that was previously thought to develop much later. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of infant development and the importance of early cognitive stimulation.

However, not all news is positive. The plight of pangolins, the most trafficked mammal in the world, continues to worsen. These shy, scaly anteaters are hunted for their unique scales, driving the demand for their products and fueling the devastating impact of wildlife smuggling. According to the World Wildlife Fund, over a million pangolins are estimated to have been seized in anti-trafficking operations between 2016 and 2024.

In a seemingly unrelated field, research on fish has revealed that they use more energy to stay still than previously thought. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that fish can remain motionless in the water column with minimal energetic expenditure. The study's results have significant implications for our understanding of fish behavior and the importance of considering the energetic costs of different behaviors.

While these discoveries may seem disparate, they share a common thread – the intricate relationships between technology, animal cognition, and human actions. As we continue to develop and integrate AI into our lives, we must consider the potential consequences on our educational systems and the world around us. Similarly, as we learn more about animal behavior and cognition, we are reminded of the importance of conservation and the devastating impact of human activities on wildlife.

In conclusion, the unseen consequences of our actions and the complex relationships between technology, animal cognition, and human behavior demand our attention. By acknowledging and addressing these issues, we can work towards creating a more sustainable and equitable future for all.