Exploring the integration of Generative AI in Higher Education: Staff Adoption, Utilisation and Perceptions

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is developing at pace, and the successful integration of GenAI in higher education (HE) teaching practice largely depends on the awareness and expertise of staff. A full understanding of the risks and opportunities of using GenAI for teaching, learning and assessment - from the perspective of both teachers and learners - is essential for developing practice and policy.

This is a BILT-funded Associate research project investigating the integration of GenAI in teaching practice from a staff perspective. In alignment with BILT’s 2024/25 theme focusing on AI teaching and assessment, this research explores how these tools are currently being used by staff at the University of Bristol, and addresses the following key questions: How are staff currently using GenAI in their HE teaching practice and how effective are the GenAI outputs created for these educational activities? What do staff perceive as the benefits of using GenAI in HE teaching practice, and what are their concerns or barriers? We will share the best practices derived from our research data and highlight common challenges; revealing the areas where further research, staff training or University policies are needed.