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Vol. 4 No. 1 (2025): Generative AI and education

‘A demure approach to GenAI’: An autoethnography on Generative AI’s transformative impact in higher education

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21428/8c225f6e.c0ae6c8a
Submitted
13 August 2026
Published
15-08-2026

Abstract

In an era where technology is reshaping the educational landscape, this paper ventures into the heart of innovative pedagogy. This study comprehensively explores how Generative AI (GenAI) tools can assist educators with designing and planning educative materials and support educational research from a first-hand inquiry. Through an autoethnographic approach, this study reveals that GenAI fosters creativity, efficiency and innovation in teaching preparation and practices, highlighting opportunities to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of educators’ practices inside and outside the classroom setting. These findings were validated through member-checking interviews, where participants affirmed the benefits of GenAI in fostering teaching strategies and streamlining educational workflows. However, the autoethnographic narratives and member-checking interviews identified significant challenges to integrating GenAI. These included a steep learning curve, risks of overreliance, and ethical concerns such as privacy and academic integrity. While the researcher demonstrated a drive to champion GenAI, member-checking participants expressed ongoing scepticism, citing limited training and a lack of policies as barriers to full adoption. This resistance underscores the importance of addressing these gaps to support the successful integration of AI in education. The study concludes with recommendations for policymakers to prioritise educator training, establish clear integration policies, and promote collaborative shared practices. By intertwining reflective practice with the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, this research offers practical insights into leveraging GenAI to advance pedagogy. Ultimately, it empowers educators to navigate digital transformation confidently, balancing innovation with thoughtful, ethical implementation to enrich educational outcomes.

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