Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence
The 2025 Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence
Available beginning May 6, 2025
Navigating college in the age of AI
Universities should embrace instruction in foundational skills and knowledge about digital technologies, preparing all learners to use AI proficiently, safely and ethically.
From the statement, “Higher education’s essential role in preparing humanity for the artificial intelligence revolution”
AI is transforming our world, often in ways we may not fully realize. This guide empowers students to engage with AI – academically, professionally and ethically. Understanding AI isn’t just useful; it’s essential. Learn to use AI responsibly, assess its influence critically, and join the conversation about its future.
Make it your goal to become skilled in using AI comfortably, effectively, safely and ethically. Learn AI’s capabilities and limitations. Understand when and how it can augment your work and when your unique human expertise and creativity is invaluable.
There is no doubt that AI will continue to evolve and impact many aspects of our lives. The changes ahead are hard to predict. This guide will help you get the most out of your college experience as you prepare for the revolution ahead.
The Student Guide to Artificial Intelligence Series
Elon University’s Imagining the Digital Future Center and the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) have collaborated to create a two-publication series to guide students as they learn about and use AI. The first Student Guide to AI was released in August 2024 and the second guide will be released May 6, 2025. Both publications are available for free download and are published under a Creative Commons license, allowing individuals and institutions to excerpt and adapt material from the guides with proper attribution.
The 2025 guide is endorsed by:
How is AI changing higher education?
Learn about the changes taking place in higher education from a 2025 report by Elon University and AAC&U: Leading Through Disruption: Higher Education Leaders Assess AI’s Impacts on Teaching and Learning
Connie Book, president, Elon University
“As AI begins to influence teaching and learning, as well as many operations of colleges and universities, you need a road map to help navigate these changes. This guide was written from the student perspective and includes practical advice about using AI responsibly while in college and preparing for the AI future.”
C. Edward Watson, vice president for digital innovation, American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U)
“The world of learning and the world of work are both changing at a dramatic rate as a result of AI, so much so that using AI effectively has quickly become essential learning for college students. This guide is indispensable for students as they travel along their AI learning journey.”
Neeli Bendapudi, president, The Pennsylvania State University
“AI poses new challenges for higher education but also represents profound opportunities to enhance our ability to learn, educate, conduct research and serve communities in ways that have never been possible. As students, scholars and innovators, we must leverage these new tools ethically and effectively to continue realizing the vital role of higher education in modern society.”
Paul LeBlanc, former president, Southern New Hampshire University
“I am encouraged that many colleges are embracing the concept of human-centered AI. This important student guide illustrates that approach by combining common sense advice about using AI with guidance on developing strong personal relationships and recognizing your own unique knowledge, skills and creativity.”
Adam Clayton Powell III, executive director, University of Southern California Cybersecurity Initiative
“In the 21st century, knowledge of AI tools is not just useful: It is essential for mastering studies in colleges and universities, for navigating job opportunities in corporations and government, for creating startups in fields ranging from technology and finance to music and design, and for life-long learning, growth and fulfillment.”
Ryan McCurdy, senior vice president and president, Lenovo North America
“At Lenovo, we applaud Elon University for empowering students to step into the future with confidence and curiosity as you prepare for AI-driven careers. With the proper framework, you can harness the power of artificial intelligence to carve your path in a world where technology is not just a tool, but an enabler of innovation, collaboration and creativity. Embrace the learning journey. The skills you cultivate today will be the foundation of tomorrow’s workplace.”
Alan Inouye, senior director, public policy & government relations, American Library Association
“In college, acquiring knowledge is important, but even more important is developing the skills and strategies for lifelong learning. Most students won’t become experts in AI technology, but all need to understand how AI can advance their chosen professions and daily lives—just as we have with prior revolutionary innovations such as personal computing. This guide is a valuable resource to gain this AI understanding.”