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New report

Ethical risks (and opportunities) of personalised AI in higher education

What might higher education look like in 2040 if artificial intelligence fully personalises the learning experience? In a new ethical risk report, published under SURF’s Future Campus project, students Nati Sack and Ben Little outline a scenario where AI tailors educational content entirely to individual student preferences.

While such personalisation can enhance accessibility, efficiency, and learning outcomes, the report highlights several risks. Students may end up in ‘echo chambers’ of knowledge, with reduced critical thinking and fewer opportunities for shared learning. There are also concerns about privacy, unequal access to quality AI systems, and the shifting role of human educators. At a broader level, these changes could impact democratic engagement and environmental sustainability.

Call for a cautious, ethics-driven approach

The authors call for a cautious, ethics-driven approach to implementing AI in education. This includes maintaining core curricula, protecting student data, ensuring equal access, and preserving the educator’s guiding role. In this way, AI can be a powerful tool without compromising the core values of education.

Read the full report
The risks of personalising higher education with AI
Download English, pdf (1 MB)

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