Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how colleges and universities educate students and prepare them for the workforce. 

As higher education works to establish guidelines around AI, they must address a larger picture: How can students use AI without losing critical skills? 

In an interview with Fox Digital Business, Richard Corcoran, president of New College of Florida and the state's former education commissioner, said AI could either strengthen education or create shortcuts that weaken the learning process.

"I think it could be a great thing, and it could be a very dangerous thing," Corcoran told Fox News Digital. "It’s how we manage it and what we do from here."

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AI tools are already being used across the U.S. by students to brainstorm, summarize information and improve writing skills. Universities are responsible for adapting and creating guidelines for students' success. 

Corcoran said universities should focus on teaching students how to think critically and evaluate information rather than preparing them for a specific job or technical skill.

"You’ve got to go back and teach those critical thinking skills," Corcoran said. "You’ve got to have all those soft skills. You have to have them be great thinkers."

He also said that AI could be a great use for universities to operate more effectively. Colleges can use technology in student recruitment, marketing, human resources and administrative work. 

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By using AI in these areas, universities are able to run smoothly and effectively. 

"AI tools in achieving efficiency have been excellent," Corcoran said.

At the same time, the growth of AI is also forcing universities to rethink what skills students need to learn before entering the workplace. As technology is doing more entry-level tasks, employers are starting to look for skills centered on communication and creativity. 

Corcoran said New College has sought to combine technology and the liberal arts in its curriculum. 

This approach is designed to help students apply AI in practical ways while still using their critical thinking skills. 

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Corcoran also pointed to New College’s senior thesis requirement as an example of how students can use AI without allowing it to replace independent thought. 

Students may use AI to assist with research or drafting, but they must defend their work before a panel of professors.

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"AI can help you draft that document," Corcoran said. "It cannot help you defend it standing before three professors."

As AI continues to develop, universities will continue to adapt their policies. 

The challenge, Corcoran said, will be ensuring that AI remains a tool that enhances education rather than a substitute for learning.