In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are seamlessly integrating into the fabric of higher education, the challenge of fostering intellectual autonomy among students has never been more pressing. Jérôme Valluy, in his insightful work published by Terra-HN éditions, delves deeply into this contemporary issue, offering a nuanced analysis of the implications AI holds for universities and proposing actionable strategies to uphold critical educational values such as scientific rigor and intellectual responsibility.

AI, particularly generative AI tools, has become a ubiquitous presence in the academic landscape. From assisting in research to generating essays, these tools are reshaping how students learn and engage with knowledge. However, Valluy highlights a critical concern: the widespread adoption of these technologies often occurs in the absence of clear ethical frameworks or robust critical discourse. This normalization poses significant risks to cognitive development, pedagogical integrity, and even the political fabric of education systems.

Rather than advocating for an outright rejection of AI tools or their uncritical embrace, Valluy adopts a pragmatic approach. His objective is to mitigate the potentially harmful effects of these technologies while fostering a balanced and informed integration into academic practices.

Beyond addressing immediate challenges, Valluy broadens the scope of his discussion to explore the fundamental role of universities in society. He envisions them not merely as institutions for knowledge transmission but as spaces for critical mediation. Universities, he argues, should actively question and critique the rapid proliferation of sociotechnical systems like AI rather than passively adopting them.

This perspective highlights a significant paradox: while universities must guide students in using AI responsibly, doing so may inadvertently contribute to the widespread normalization of these tools. To navigate this tension, Valluy calls for a steadfast commitment to critiquing the underlying logics of digital capitalism and fostering a culture that values independent intellectual labor over technological convenience.

Valluy’s work culminates in 20 practical recommendations aimed at empowering students and educators to engage thoughtfully with AI technologies. These recommendations are not only practical but also thought-provoking, designed to spark further dialogue about how best to balance technological innovation with educational integrity.

Read the study (in French)

Jérôme Valluy, « Former à l’autonomie intellectuelle à l’ère des machines-IA », Terra-HN éditions, Recueil Alexandries, Collections Synthèses, 2026