Artificial intelligence in higher education: a replacement for teachers or a support tool?

Abstract

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) is emerging as an innovative tool that is transforming global higher education, including the specific challenges faced by the technical-professional sector in Chile. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of first-year Business Administration students in technical-professional higher education regarding the role of GAI compared to instructors in their learning process. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The sample included 200 students who participated in surveys and interviews to provide both numerical and contextual data. The results indicate that 93% of students value their relationship with instructors, 72% oppose replacing instructors with GAI, and 91.5% recognize the relevance of technology in education. Additionally, 65% emphasized the importance of personalized feedback from instructors. While students perceive GAI as a valuable tool, they highlight the irreplaceable role of instructors in terms of human interaction and personalized support. These findings suggest that the implementation of GAI should aim to complement, rather than replace, the role of instructors, ensuring a balance between technology and human interaction in the learning process.