AI in the classroom: progress or challenge? An interview with Narciso Michavila
Artificial intelligence has become a catalyst for change that is revolutionising various sectors, and higher education is no exception. At Planeta Formación y Universidades, we have explored this phenomenon through the recent publication of a barometer that analyses its impact on education. This study, conducted among 3,200 students aged 18 to 35 in Colombia, Spain, France and Italy, shows how young people are incorporating these technologies for their academic development.
The findings are revealing: 60% of students use artificial intelligence at user level, and generative artificial intelligence is the most popular, with an outstanding 84% adoption rate in Colombia. However, when it comes to advanced knowledge, how to know where and how to apply the different tools, only around half of the respondents in each country have this level of understanding.
This data shows a clear interrelationship between the importance attributed to artificial intelligence and the desire to deepen our knowledge of it. Challenges also arise, however, such as the impact on certain jobs and ethical and data privacy concerns.
To explore these issues further, we interviewed Narciso Michavila, president and founder of GAD3, a social research and communication consultancy, and director of this project. In the following conversation, he shares his insights into the use of AI among young people, its impact on the workplace, and the ethical challenges it poses. He also looks at how educational institutions can adapt to train the professionals of the future.
Did you imagine that the number of students using Artificial Intelligence would be so high? Were any of the results of the study surprising or noteworthy?
Yes, while it was predictable that younger generations were becoming familiar with artificial intelligence, the data from the study was quite surprising in its magnitude. The fact that around 60% of students use AI tools, and that such a high percentage, particularly in Colombia, use generative AI, shows that the technology is rapidly becoming part of students' everyday lives. This indicates the huge interest and adaptability of young people, and especially notable is the tendency of Colombian students not only to use but also to develop and apply AI tools. This shows a clear trend that AI is no longer just a technical area and is starting to seep into educational across different disciplines.
In a recent interview in the La Razón newspaper, you pointed out that we need to be familiar with AI so that it doesn’t dominate us. What is the risk of this?
The risk of AI "dominating" us lies in a lack of knowledge. If we don’t understand the capabilities and limitations of AI, we are in a vulnerable position, where we could become less autonomous in our decision-making or become dependent on systems without questioning their processes and outcomes. Without clear knowledge, users may simply accept what algorithms suggest or, in areas such as the workplace, the risk is that those with the most AI expertise will control key positions while others are left behind. Understanding AI is therefore essential for making informed decisions and maintaining control over its ethical and humane use.
How can we use AI to our advantage at work?
AI can be a transformative tool in the workplace by automating repetitive tasks and enabling professionals to spend more time on strategic or creative aspects. The key is to integrate AI to improve productivity and decision-making, personalise services, and optimise internal and external communication. It is useful for predicting trends and adapting quickly to changes, which in sectors such as marketing, health and education can result in substantial improvements in performance and accuracy. In addition, the data from the survey indicates that many workers expect AI to free them from mechanical and routine tasks, enabling them to focus on value-added contributions.
What evaluation should society make of the use of AI tools and ethics so as not to be left behind?
It is essential that, as a society, we address the use of AI from an ethical approach that respects privacy and promotes transparency. This means developing regulations to ensure fair and safe use of AI, although users and companies are also responsible for applying ethical principles every time they interact with these technologies. It’s not about slowing down progress but making sure that technological progress is in line with our values and rights. Only then can we harness the potential of AI without creating inequalities or jeopardising our trust in technology.
How is the Artificial Intelligence sector working to focus this tool on higher education?
The AI industry is stepping up its efforts to create specialised educational tools, which allow for learning to be personalised to suit the needs of individual learners and streamline content more effectively. AI tools are powering adaptive learning platforms, virtual assistants and simulated environments where students can interact and experiment - elements that facilitate education in complex and practical areas. There are already university programmes in which AI practices are being implemented. In addition, collaboration between tech companies and academic institutions allows for the integration of AI into curricula, ensuring students are ready for an increasingly digital workplace and know how to use it correctly.
How can educational institutions implement this transformation in the most cross-cutting way possible?
To ensure cross-cutting integration, educational institutions should address AI not only as a subject but as a core competence for all students, regardless of their degree. This involves training teachers, constantly updating academic content, and fostering a culture of innovation. An effective strategy is to set up multidisciplinary projects in which students from different areas can apply AI in their specific fields. Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities faculties, for example, can use AI to analyse cultural data or to preserve heritage, and thus understand its applicability beyond the technical approach. In short, change will be effective if the entire academic community comes together, promoting a broad and applied understanding of AI.
Training the professionals of the future
The conversation with Narciso Michavila offered a clear vision of how artificial intelligence is transforming education and the labour market. There is no doubt that we must adapt and prepare for these changes, integrating these technologies in an ethical and effective way.
The network of institutions that make up Planeta Formación y Universidades is firmly committed to this purpose. We believe in an education that not only innovates technologically, but also fosters human values, critical thinking and social responsibility. We therefore train the professionals who will lead this new scenario.
Don't be left behind! Please take a closer look at this topic and discover more about the findings of our study. Access the Barometer: Artificial Intelligence and the Employability of the Future and join us in this exciting challenge into the future.
