Although some have spoken of the “end” of the teaching profession with the emergence of generative artificial intelligence, what this technology has actually meant is the definitive endorsement of a transformation in the role of the teacher, especially at the university level. And one of its most important functions is to facilitate critical thinking .

Today’s university professor must help their students filter, analyze, and understand information within an ethical and responsible framework. It’s not enough to simply teach the content of a subject: the professor must train their students in independent research and source evaluation.

This skill is essential for transforming students from passive receivers to active thinkers so that they are able, as Jean Piaget said , “to do new things, not simply repeat what other generations have done.”

The teacher, an example of the use of information

Training in source evaluation and independent research requires instructors to model transparent handling of the information university students have access to on university intranets, including articles, videos, and websites with relevant data. For example, by organizing debates and critically reviewing sources during lectures .

ChatGPT’s own founder, Sam Altman , has come out in defense of the profession . In a world marked by an overabundance of information and immediate access to data, teachers are the ones who can make the difference, not only by training professionals but also by training critical citizens .

Technology as an ally (and challenge) in the classroom

In this endeavor, technology is both an ally and a challenge. Educational platforms, interactive resources, and even gamification have redefined the educational experience, both in in-person and online classes. Added to this is the rise of generative artificial intelligence . All of this forces teachers to update their technical knowledge and teaching skills.

For this reason, the teaching of the future is seen as a combination of the teacher who guides and facilitates learning, and the student who, active and motivated, assumes a leading role in their own learning process. As Paulo Freire suggested , “teaching demands respect for the autonomy of the learner’s being.”

Ability to adapt and add value

The shift from traditional roles, where both teachers and students participate in a collaborative learning process, should also contribute to equal opportunities among students.

This approach develops competencies such as adaptability and independent learning, essential skills in a changing labor market. The challenge is to train people capable of adapting and adding value in any professional environment .

Faced with the technological, social, and economic pressures of the work environment that university students will face , teachers must be aware of future challenges and the skills students need to adapt their teaching to the real-life environment they will be entering.

The university as a space for transformation

The role of the university professor in the 21st century is similar to that of a transformer of reality: the professor explains knowledge, guides students in developing critical and ethical thinking, motivates them to assume social responsibilities, and prepares them to face the challenges of an uncertain future.

University education should not only prepare students to enter the workforce, but also to contribute meaningfully and responsibly to building a better world.

Author Bio: Pedro César Martínez Morán is Director of the Master in Talent Management at Advantere School of Management / Associate Professor at the Faculty of Economics and Business at Comillas Pontifical University, Fernando Díez Ruiz is Professor, Faculty of Education and Sport at the University of Deusto and Luis Alarcón Massó is an Academic Coordinator – Professional Skills Diploma (ICAI) also at the Comillas Pontifical University