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Generative AI in Higher Education: A Global Perspective of Institutional Adoption Policies and Guidelines

Authors
Yueqiao Jin,
Lixiang Yan,
Vanessa Echeverria,
Dragan Gasevic,
Roberto Martinez-Maldonado
Date
Publisher
arXiv
Integrating generative AI (GAI) into higher education is crucial for preparing a future generation of GAI-literate students. Yet a thorough understanding of the global institutional adoption policy remains absent, with most of the prior studies focused on the Global North and the promises and challenges of GAI, lacking a theoretical lens. This study utilizes the Diffusion of Innovations Theory to examine GAI adoption strategies in higher education across 40 universities from six global regions. It explores the characteristics of GAI innovation, including compatibility, trialability, and observability, and analyses the communication channels and roles and responsibilities outlined in university policies and guidelines. The findings reveal a proactive approach by universities towards GAI integration, emphasizing academic integrity, teaching and learning enhancement, and equity. Despite a cautious yet optimistic stance, a comprehensive policy framework is needed to evaluate the impacts of GAI integration and establish effective communication strategies that foster broader stakeholder engagement. The study highlights the importance of clear roles and responsibilities among faculty, students, and administrators for successful GAI integration, supporting a collaborative model for navigating the complexities of GAI in education. This study contributes insights for policymakers in crafting detailed strategies for its integration.
Study at a glance
  • Question: How do university policies around the world address the adoption of generative AI?
  • Setting and data: Institutional policies and guidelines from 40 universities across six global regions.
  • Method: Analysis of policy documents (Diffusion of Innovations Theory).
Why it matters

Integrating generative AI into higher education is crucial for preparing GAI-literate students. Yet a thorough understanding of global institutional adoption policies remains absent, with most prior studies focused on the Global North and lacking a theoretical lens.

Key findings
  • Across 40 universities in six global regions, policies took a proactive approach toward generative AI integration, prioritizing academic integrity, teaching enhancement, and equity.
  • Institutional adoption policies reflected a cautious yet optimistic stance toward generative AI across campuses.
  • Guidelines emphasized clear, collaborative roles and responsibilities among faculty, students, and administrators for managing generative AI in education.

Summary drafted with AI from the paper’s abstract and may contain errors. See the full paper for details.

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