We Studied How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing the Work of Higher Education Teachers
AI in the Work of Higher Education Teachers: Shared Insights, New Research Findings, and Evidence-Based Recommendations
Artificial intelligence is transforming the work of higher education teachers in many ways. While it can support, inspire, and enhance the efficiency of educators in their work, it can also contribute to increased workload, stress, and time pressures. The use of AI in teaching therefore brings both opportunities and challenges.
To ensure that the benefits of AI can be adopted sustainably, higher education institutions need clear policies, shared practices, and sufficient time and opportunities for collaborative learning and the development of AI competencies. Meaningful pedagogical integration of AI into teaching requires time, resources, support, and open dialogue. At its best, however, AI can enrich teachers’ work and free up more time for engaging with students and supporting their learning.
As part of the Artificial intelligence to make work easier project, which concluded at the end of August, we conducted a total of five sub-studies based on three different datasets. Data were collected through surveys, observations, and interviews. The sub-studies examined AI and its role from multiple perspectives, ranging from its practical applications to its impact on higher education teachers’ well-being and sense of agency. In addition, the studies explored how the teaching profession is changing and being redefined in the age of AI.
Each sub-study revealed unique insights into AI while also highlighting many common themes across the research findings. At the conclusion of the project, the sub-studies were in their final stages of completion and will later be published as scientific research articles.
Meaningful pedagogical use of AI requires time, resources, support, and shared discussion. At its best, AI can enrich teachers’ work and allow them to dedicate more time to student interaction and learning support.
We held the project’s final webinar on 26 August 2026. During the panel discussions organized as part of the event, we examined AI as both a demand and a resource in the work of higher education teachers. We also discussed our research findings and their significance for higher education communities.
Recordings of the panel discussions are available on YouTube:
We have also published a final report, which includes recommendations for action derived from the research findings generated during the project.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to the research team and all participants for their excellent collaboration throughout the project.
Artificial intelligence to make work easier
Project was carried out in collaboration between Turku University of Applied Sciences, Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK), and the University of Turku from 1 April 2025 to 31 August 2026.
The project examined both the opportunities and limitations that AI presents in the work of higher education teachers, particularly in relation to teaching, well-being, collaboration and community, and work efficiency.
- The project was funded by the Finnish Work Environment Fund.
- Whole budget: 205 250 €
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