Communications Teachers, Postsecondary

Communications professors handle many duties – from preparing lectures and homework to grading papers and advising students ^[1]. Some of these routine tasks are already helped by AI and software. For example, teachers report using ChatGPT to draft full lesson plans, quizzes or handouts very quickly ^[2].

In fact, one study found 57% of instructors’ AI queries were about developing curricula, while far fewer involved grading ^[3]. AI tools can also manage paperwork: one lecturer advises “let the machines do the data entry and copywriting” so that real people focus on teaching ^[4]. However, the human part of the job is still very much in teachers’ hands.

Tasks that require empathy and judgment – like mentoring students, giving career advice, and leading class discussions – have not been automated. As one advisor notes, chatbots can answer routine questions but “can’t replace human judgment or empathy” in personal interactions ^[5].

AI tools are easy to access and many educators are already experimenting with them. A recent poll found about 60% of teachers used AI tools in their work last year ^[2], and reports show colleges often use AI for planning lessons or coursework ^[3]. Schools may adopt AI quickly because it can save time and money on chores like grading and attendance.

In fact, some universities and tech companies are investing in teacher training for AI use. But adoption can also be slow. Professors worry about accuracy, fairness, and ethics.

For example, many educators feel grading shouldn’t be fully “outsourced” to a computer ^[3]. New tools require training and oversight, and teachers still value the human touch in advising and feedback. Overall, AI in this field tends to augment routine work (streamlining paperwork and creating content) while leaving core teaching and mentoring tasks to people ^{[4] [5]}.

In short, teachers who learn to use AI where it helps will still rely on their own creativity, experience and personal connection – skills that machines can’t replace.