Abstract
This study emphasizes the importance of ethical and human-centered leadership in the adoption of AI-based Early Alert Systems (EAS) in higher education. It argues for leadership that is mindful of system-level risks and ethical considerations in utilizing AI tools for student retention and administrative efficiency. The research fills a gap by identifying key leadership skills, qualities, and responsibilities necessary for the ethical adoption of AI tools. Through qualitative analysis with the help of focus groups, the study highlights the need for supportive and authentic leadership that engages stakeholders ethically, addresses equity, inclusion, data privacy, and mitigates the psychological impacts of AI tools. The findings advocate for a holistic approach to technology leadership, highlighting continuous AI literacy training and the importance of maintaining human oversight in AI technologies’ evolving landscape, as well as emphasizing stakeholder engagement, awareness training, and the cultivation of an open and supportive technological environment. This work contributes to the discourse on technology leadership in higher education, underlining the role of leaders in navigating the complexities of AI tools’ adoption while aligning with institutional and educational values.
Recommended Citation
Titareva, Tatjana and Mabrey, Paul III
(2025)
"Ethical Adoption of AI-based tools in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs),"
Journal of Educational Leadership in Action: Vol. 10:
Iss.
1, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.62608/2164-1102.1181
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/ela/vol10/iss1/4
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