Opportunities and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: A Systematic Review

Document Type : مروری

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Management, Faculty of Administrative and Economic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran

2 Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Management, Faculty of Administrative and Economic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran

10.22091/jrim.2025.13842.1378

Abstract

Artificial intelligence has emerged over recent decades as one of the most transformative technologies across various fields, particularly in higher education. The introduction of tools such as adaptive learning systems,  intelligent chatbots,  and generative AI has created multiple opportunities for enhancing educational quality,  personalizing learning,  reducing faculty workload,  and increasing student engagement and motivation.This study,  employing a systematic review approach and based on the framework of Okoli and Schabram (2010),  examines 24 selected articles from reputable scientific databases to provide a comprehensive overview of the applications,  opportunities,  and challenges of AI in higher education.The findings indicate that the use of ChatGPT and similar technologies leads to significant improvements in academic performance,  enhances critical and creative thinking skills,  increases student satisfaction,  and reduces stress. Furthermore, these tools play a vital role in enabling personalized education and ensuring equitable access to learning resources. On the other hand, research highlights the potential of AI in facilitating instructional and administrative tasks for faculty members, positioning it as a key driver in transforming traditional educational structures. Nevertheless, challenges such as ethical concerns, data privacy protection, the risk of excessive student dependence on technology, reduced independent learning, and the lack of infrastructure and skills among instructors pose serious barriers to the effective adoption of AI. The review also reveals that most studies have been conducted in developed countries, with managerial, cultural, and human aspects receiving less attention.Therefore, the results underscore the need for more comprehensive studies and the contextualization of AI applications in higher education. Overall,  the evidence suggests that the intelligent and responsible use of AI can play a crucial role in improving the quality of university learning and teaching,  paving the way for the transformation of modern educational systems.

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 25 November 2025

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