College Students and Professors Debate AI Use on Campus

Differing views emerge on how generative AI should be leveraged in academic settings.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As generative AI becomes more prevalent on college campuses, students and professors are still grappling with how the technology should be utilized. Some see it as a helpful tool, while others worry it may undermine the critical thinking and writing skills that are central to the academic experience.

Why it matters

The debate over AI use in academia highlights broader questions about the role of technology in education and the need to balance innovation with preserving core learning objectives. Colleges must navigate these complex issues as AI continues to advance and become more accessible to students and faculty.

The details

English professor Dan Cryer at Johnson County Community College argues that using generative AI to write essays is akin to "bringing a forklift to the gym" - it may get the job done, but it doesn't develop the necessary "muscles" of critical thinking and writing that are essential for students. Others view AI as a valuable supplement that can assist with research, ideation, and even peer review. However, there are concerns that overreliance on AI could lead to academic dishonesty and undermine core learning objectives.

  • The debate over AI use in academia has been ongoing for the past several years as the technology has become more advanced and accessible on college campuses.

The players

Dan Cryer

An English professor at Johnson County Community College who is skeptical of using generative AI for academic writing assignments.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If all we needed was the weights moved, then that would be great. But we need the muscles developed, and students going through the process of writing are developing those muscles.”

— Dan Cryer, English Professor

What’s next

Colleges and universities are expected to continue debating the appropriate use of AI in academic settings, with potential policy changes and guidelines emerging as the technology evolves.

The takeaway

The debate over AI in academia highlights the need for colleges to carefully balance innovation and technological advancement with preserving the core learning objectives and critical thinking skills that are central to the academic experience.