Enhancing People Management in Higher Education: Embracing Technology Amid Ethical Concerns
In the dynamic landscape of higher education, the integration of automation, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning holds the promise of significantly improving people management processes. Authors Furqan Qamar and Jai Mohan Pandit highlight the potential efficiency gains across various functions, from recruitment to professional development, ultimately elevating the quality of the teaching and learning experience.
The pivotal role of technology, including AI, in streamlining Human Resource Management (HRM) cannot be overstated. The automation of tasks related to selection, recruitment, and development of teaching, administrative, technical, and support staff can bring about transformative improvements. However, as higher education institutions increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, concerns regarding privacy emerge in areas such as hiring, performance reviews, and professional development.
Despite the undeniable benefits of technology integration, the authors caution against the misuse of AI, especially in the context of large language models (LLMs) generating fictitious information. The term ‘hallucination,’ crowned as the Cambridge word of the year for 2023, underscores the need for a cautious approach in adopting AI for teaching and research.
The article emphasises the urgency for higher education institutions to embrace technology, not just as an option but as a necessity. With public-funded institutions allocating a substantial portion of their budget to staff costs, technology-mediated human-centred approaches to people management become imperative. The shift from traditional Personnel Management and Industrial Relations (PMIR) to contemporary HRM, facilitated by technological advancements, is portrayed as an imminent evolution.
Despite the potential for positive transformation, the authors observe that many higher education institutions still adhere to outdated HR policies and practices. Public-funded universities and colleges, in particular, are depicted as being entrenched in procedural activities, lacking the agility required for modern people management.
In conclusion, the article advocates for a balanced approach, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency in people management while remaining vigilant about ethical considerations. Striking this balance is portrayed as crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of higher education, where embracing innovation is key to staying relevant and effective.