As a way to help all of academia, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions around the world, I introduce the “Compass Framework for AI Literacy Integration into Higher Education.” This is a completely free (Creative Commons 4.0) AI literacy framework for easy and flexible integration of AI literacy into the curriculum. This framework is designed from my experience working with many universities around the world, reviewing other AI frameworks, and from various other research.
The AI literacy components are made up of: Awareness, Capability (including prompt engineering), Knowledge, and Critical Thinking (to include bias, ethics, environmental impacts, and avoiding overreliance.
This AI literacy framework also addresses student learning outcomes and provides specific examples of how this framework can be integrated without necessarily increasing credit requirements. Additional information is also presented dealing with needed subskills, advanced AI skills for degree-specific fields, alternative frameworks, and additional actions needed to ensure overall success with AI literacy integration.
An introductory video on this important and free AI literacy framework is available through the Sovorel Center for Teaching & Learning educational YouTube channel here:
The Compass Framework for AI Literacy Integration into Higher Education has been designed and made available for free by the Sovorel Center for Teaching & Learning. Please let us know you have used it, it has been helpful for your organization, or if you have any other feedback. Thank you very much, and we appreciate everyone’s ongoing support.
What does the latest research tell us about students using AI for college planning?
If you have spent time with today’s high school students, you know their college search journey looks nothing like it did ten, or even five, years ago. A glossy brochure or a well-timed postcard still has a place. However, the first “hello” increasingly comes through a digital assistant, a TikTok video, or a quick artificial intelligence–powered search.
Let us not pretend artificial intelligence (AI) is everyone’s new best friend. Some students are eager, some are eye-rolling, and plenty are stuck in the “maybe” camp. That mix of excitement and hesitation is real, and it deserves as much attention as hype.
The data is clear: nearly half of students (45 percent) have already used a digital AI assistant on a college website, with usage peaking among 9th- and 10th-graders (RNL, Halda, & Modern Campus, 2025). At the same time, a full third of students nationwide have turned to tools like ChatGPT to explore colleges, scholarships, and even essay help (RNL & Teen Voice, 2025).
This trend is playing out nationwide, with major news outlets reporting that AI chatbots are becoming a common part of the college application process, assisting students with everything from brainstorming essays to navigating deadlines (Singer, 2023).
For many students, AI is not futuristic; it is already woven into how they imagine, explore, and narrow their choices. Recent reporting confirms that AI-driven college search platforms are helping more students, especially those without access to personalized guidance, find the right fit and expand their options beyond what they might have considered on their own (Greenberg, 2025).
Beyond RNL: What other research shows
The RNL findings fit a much bigger story about how AI changes education. Around the world, researchers are watching students test, tinker, and sometimes wrestle with what these tools mean for learning and planning.
One line of research looks at predictive modeling. Recent studies have shown that AI-driven platforms can analyze student data, grades, extracurricular activities, and demographics to predict which students are likely to pursue college and which might need extra support (Eid, Mansouri, & Miled, 2024). By flagging students at risk of falling off the college pathway, these predictive systems allow counselors to intervene earlier, potentially changing a student’s trajectory.
Another cluster of studies zeroes in on personalized guidance. Tools built around a student’s interests and goals can recommend classes, extracurriculars, and colleges that “fit” better than a generic list. This is especially important in schools where one counselor may juggle hundreds of students (Majjate et al., 2023).
Meanwhile, students are already using AI, sometimes in ways that make their teachers nervous. A Swedish study added some nuance: the most confident students use AI the most, while those who are already unsure of their skills tend to hold back (Klarin, 2024). That raises real equity questions about who benefits.
And not all students are fans. Some research highlights concerns about privacy, over-reliance, and losing the chance to build their problem-solving muscles. It is a reminder that skepticism is not resistance for resistance’s sake but a way of protecting what matters to them.
On the institutional side, surveys suggest that many colleges are preparing to use AI in admissions, whether for transcript analysis or essay review. Recent coverage underscores that admissions offices are increasingly turning to AI tools to streamline application review, identify best-fit students, and even personalize outreach (Barnard, 2024).
If all of this feels like a promise and a warning label, it is because it is. AI can democratize access to information, but it can also amplify bias. Students know that. And they want us to take their concerns seriously.
Empower your leadership and staff to harness the power of AI.
Don’t get left behind in the AI transformation for higher education. See how RNL’s AI Education Services can help your leaders and staff unlock the full potential of AI on your campus.
Meet the pioneers, aspirers, resistors, and fence-sitters
As revealed by our research in The AI Divide in College Planning (RNL & Teen Voice, 2025), not all students approach artificial intelligence the same way. Four personas stand out:
Pioneers are already deep in the mix, using artificial intelligence for research, essays, and scholarship searches. Many say it has opened doors to colleges they might not have even considered otherwise.
Aspirers are curious but want proof. They like the idea of scholarship searches or cost planning, but need easy, free tools and success stories before they commit.
Resistors lean on counselors and family. They are worried about accuracy and privacy, but might come around if an advisor they trust introduces the tool.
Fence-Sitters are classic “wait and see” students. A third might trust artificial intelligence to guide them through the application process, but the majority are still unsure.
The takeaway? There is no single “artificial intelligence student.” Institutions need flexible strategies that welcome the eager, reassure the cautious, and do not alienate the skeptics.
What happens after the chatbot says, “Hello“?
One of the most striking findings from the E-Expectations study is that students rarely stop at the chatbot (RNL, Halda, & Modern Campus, 2025). After engaging with an AI assistant, they move. Twenty-nine percent email admissions directly, 28% click deeper into the website, 27% fill out an inquiry form, and almost a quarter apply.
In other words, that little chat bubble is not just answering frequently asked questions. It is a launchpad.
Personalization meets privacy
Here is another twist. While most students (61%) want personalization, they want it on their terms. Nearly half prefer to filter and customize their content, while only 16% want the college to decide automatically (RNL, Halda, & Modern Campus, 2025).
That is the sweet spot for artificial intelligence: not deciding for students but giving them the levers to design their journey.
What this means for your enrollment teams
AI is not just a front-end feature but a funnel mover. Treat chatbot engagement like an inquiry. Have a system ready to respond quickly when a student shifts from chatting to acting.
Remember the personas. Pioneers want depth, Aspirers want reassurance, Resistors want trusted guides, and Fence-Sitters want time. Design communications that honor those differences instead of pushing one script for all.
Personalization is not about guessing. It is about giving students control. Build tools that let them filter, sort, search, and resist the temptation to over-curate their journey.
AI is a natural fit for cost and scholarship exploration. If you want to hook Aspirers, put AI into your net price calculators or scholarship finders.
Virtual tours and event registration bots should not feel like gimmicks. When done well, they can bridge the gap between interest and visit, giving students confidence before setting foot on campus.
Download the complete reports from RNL and our partners to see what students are telling us directly:
Institutions need to optimize their website content for AI-powered search results.
Search is dramatically evolving—and fast. Generative AI (Gen AI), especially Large Language Models (LLMs), are completely reshaping how information is processed, synthesized, and delivered. This changes how prospective students are influenced and impacts your institution’s visibility.
For today’s prospective college students, “search” is far more than a simple tool to find the best university; it’s what they do first to find the information they need during all stages of their college journey. In a world overflowing with options, your university’s visibility and prominence in these evolving search results can be the deciding factor in whether you’re even on a student’s radar.
I’ve recently had several conversations with university leaders, and one thing is clear: maximizing discoverability in this new, AI-powered era is top of mind. This blog is a direct result of those conversations and aims to cut through the noise to explain the why, what, and how of AI-driven student search.
The WHY: Generative AI-Powered Search
Generative AI (Gen AI) is the powerful application of machine learning that is transforming how information is created, compiled, and presented. Gen AI’s ability to create, summarize, and discover new information is precisely why it has become so crucial to modern online searching.
At the core are LLMs like ChatGPT and Gemini that are trained on massive amounts of data to understand and generate human-like language. These models enable students to ask complex, conversational questions like: “Which MBA program is best if I’m working full-time and want to study online?”
LLMs understand the intent behind that question—not just the words. That’s a huge leap from traditional keyword-based search. And the Gen AI is pulling from a vast range of sources, summarizing information, and delivering fast, context-rich answers with relevant links.
The WHAT: AI is Transforming Student Search
1. The rise of conversational search
Search is no longer just about typing in a few keywords and scrolling through results. Today’s prospective students are asking real questions, using full sentences, and expecting immediate, tailored answers whether it’s on Gemini, Siri, or ChatGPT.
In 2025, over 20% of the global population is already using voice search like Siri and Alexa. Many of these searches are like natural conversations—they’re specific, urgent, and detailed. That means your website content needs to be structured to answer these questions directly and naturally.
Your content needs to do more than just match keywords; it needs to thoroughly and thoughtfully answer the actual questions behind what students ask the Gen AI tool. Otherwise, your university could remain hidden from the Gen AI tools students use most.
2. Google AI overviews and AI mode: A new front page
Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) are fundamentally changing the Search Engine Results Page (SERP) and content visibility by providing AI-generated summaries at the top. Instead of showing multiple blue links, AIOs serve up AI-generated summaries right at the top—pulling from multiple sources and citing them directly. If your content is cited in the summary, your visibility increases. If not, you might be left out entirely.
Soon, these summaries will be able to have paid ads in them. As part of the release in Google Marketing Live 2025, ads will appear directly within these AI Overviews, creating new high-visibility placements that are essential for maintaining paid visibility. You need to start planning to include AIO ads as part of your paid media strategy. Visibility is no longer about just bidding on keywords—it’s about being where the AI puts attention.
3. The accuracy challenge with LLMs
LLMs, which are also the technology powering AI Overviews, are powerful, but not perfect. They generate answers quickly, but if they lack real-time data, they can “hallucinate” or produce outdated info. Think of it this way—while your institutional content can become part of an AI’s knowledge base, the accuracy and strength of the AI’s responses are heavily dependent on your website’s structure for AI discoverability and the completeness and timeliness of your content on key pages like academic programs, faculty profiles, research archives, financial aid and student success stories.
However, students do not just take the face value of a summary. They want to dive deeper. Interestingly, AI assistants often pull from forums like Reddit or Quora. That’s a signal: clarity, authenticity, and helpfulness now compete with traditional authority. If your content sounds genuinely human and directly answers real student questions, it’s more likely to be cited by these tools and trusted by prospective students.
Talk with our digital marketing and enrollment experts
RNL works with colleges and universities across the country to ensure their digital marketing is optimized and filling their academic programs. Reach out today for a complimentary consultation to discuss:
Search engine optimization
Digital marketing
Lead generation
Digital engagement throughout the enrollment funnel
We are firmly in the age of Search + Chat. For universities’ content creators and marketing teams, this means adapting your strategy to a hybrid model where optimizing for both traditional search engines and AI citations is crucial. It’s no longer about ranking high on Google; it’s about being part of the conversation students are having with AI.
Just as prompt engineers craft inputs for LLMs, your content needs to “prompt” search AI effectively. This means creating well-structured, meaningful content that makes it easy for AI to understand and cite your information. This adds a layer of sophistication to content optimization, moving us toward what some call Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). Think of it as SEO, reimagined for an AI-first search environment.
Top 5 GEO Strategies You Can Focus on Now
1. Topic-focused content
Move beyond program name focus to cover broader topics comprehensively, addressing full student intent. For example, instead of just “Best Online MBA,” create content around “Which MBA program is the best while balancing a full-time job?” or “career paths in business analytics” or “balancing graduate studies with work.” This helps AI understand the full context, making your university’s degree program’s content relevant for diverse student queries.
2. Answer-focused structure
Use short, digestible sections with clear, question-based headings. For example, “When are the application deadlines for fall 2025?” or “How do I schedule a campus tour?” Include plain-text facts and data-driven claims (e.g., graduate employment rates, program rankings, faculty research impact). Content with specific data is 40% more likely to appear in LLM responses.
3. Build authority (E-E-A-T)
AI models favor content that signals Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust. For universities, this means transparently displaying faculty qualifications, publishing original research, program rankings, and highlighting alumni success, through testimonials. Strong E-E-A-T signals trustworthiness to AI, crucial for students making significant educational decisions. This isn’t just for humans, it’s how AI decides your credibility.
4. Structured data and schema markup to speak AI’s language
Think of schema markup as a universal translator for your website. It’s code you add to your pages that tells AI models and search engines what specific pieces of information mean, not just what they say. For example:
You can mark up your academic programs as “Courses,” detailing credit hours, learning outcomes, and faculty.
Your events (like campus tours or info sessions) can be identified as “Events” with dates, times, and locations.
Faculty profiles can be marked as “Persons,” highlighting their name, title, department, and research interests.
Testimonials can be flagged as “Reviews,” complete with star ratings and reviewer names.
Why this matters: When AI understands the precise context of your content, it can extract accurate information more effectively. This dramatically boosts your visibility in AI Overviews, rich snippets, and voice search.
5. AI crawler accessibility
For AI models to learn from your website, they first need to be able to “read” it. This means ensuring your university’s websites and program pages are fully accessible to AI crawlers.
Check your robots.txt file: This file tells web crawlers (including those used by AI) which parts of your site they can and cannot access. Make sure it’s not inadvertently blocking important academic programs, admissions details, or faculty research sections.
Handle JavaScript-heavy elements: Many modern university sites use JavaScript for interactive elements like program finders, application portals, or dynamic course catalogs. If not set up correctly, AI crawlers might not “see” the content generated by this JavaScript. Consider Server-Side Rendering (SSR) or Static Site Generation (SSG) to ensure this critical content is visible to crawlers.
If AI crawlers can’t access your academic program content, it won’t be discoverable by AI- powered search.
Final Thoughts: Show Up Where It Counts
The AI-driven evolution of student search isn’t a distant prediction—it’s happening now. My conversations with campus partners consistently confirms this: AI isn’t replacing traditional student search, but profoundly reshaping how students search, find, trust, and act on information.
The smartest path forward isn’t choosing between Google and AI chat tools. It’s using both. This is a powerful convergence where AI assistants deliver fast, personalized insights, while Google Search provides foundational depth, structure and authority.
Ask yourself: Is your content part of that journey? Is it fresh, factual, and findableAI and traditional search? For higher ed marketing and enrollment management professionals seeking to make a lasting impact, the answer is clear: Be the answer in both places.
At RNL, we’re committed to helping universities stay discoverable throughout the entire funnel—from awareness to inquiry to application and enrollment. We care deeply about the student journey too, and we know how critical it is for students to find the right-fit institutions at the right time. That’s why we stay agile—continuously evolving our strategies to meet students where they are and help institutions show up early, stay relevant, and convert when it counts.
Talk with our digital marketing and enrollment experts
RNL works with colleges and universities across the country to ensure their digital marketing is optimized and filling their academic programs. Reach out today for a complimentary consultation to discuss:
Search engine optimization
Digital marketing
Lead generation
Digital engagement throughout the enrollment funnel
Reaping the benefits of AI also means addressing the concerns and challenges of using it.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has already made significant inroads into higher education, transforming various aspects of campus life and academic processes. Since becoming part of the mainstream lexicon two years ago, AI has rapidly evolved from a subject of concern regarding academic integrity to an integral tool for enhancing educational experiences. Today, AI is influencing everything from recruitment strategies to long-term student success, with institutions using advanced analytics to predict outcomes, optimize operations, and improve decision-making. Our 2025 Marketing and Recruitment Practices for Undergraduate Students Report details some of the ways colleges and universities have incorporated AI in higher education marketing and enrollment operations.
However, the integration of AI in higher education is not without its challenges and ethical considerations. As we examine the pros and cons of utilizing AI in higher education marketing, it’s crucial to understand that this technology is no longer a future prospect but a present reality shaping the landscape of colleges and universities across the nation.
The pros of AI in higher education marketing
AI offers transformative benefits for higher education marketing by enabling personalized and data-driven strategies. Key advantages include:
Personalized outreach: AI analyzes vast datasets to tailor content and communication for prospective students, increasing engagement and conversion rates. For example, predictive analytics can identify high-value leads and anticipate drop-off points in the enrollment process. And since Ann Taylor, Target, Netflix and a host of other brands are utilizing AI to serve me content that is specifically tailored to my tastes, my buying behaviors, and my blood sugar level/impulse control, it is imperative that higher ed keep up with the rest of the content consumer driven market.
Automation: AI automates repetitive tasks like email campaigns, social media posts, and chatbot interactions, freeing up staff to focus on strategy and relationship-building. This reduces costs and improves operational efficiency. Higher ed leaders continue to lament the talent/staff crisis on campus, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas where the available talent may be shallow and work-from-home opportunities are not widespread. Instead, we must maximize the time of the staff we have and utilize them for the activities and outcomes that are truly reliant on human interaction, while automating, outsourcing, or eliminating the rest.
Real-time support: AI-powered chatbots provide 24/7 support, answering student inquiries instantly and improving the overall student experience. Digital assistants engage with your prospective students, parents, alumni, and supporters when it’s best for THEM, rather than best for you. International student populations may not be in your time zone and may be unable to connect during U.S. business hours. Parents and prospective parents may be researching during off-hours. The RNL Compass digital assistant provides that round-the-clock engagement that directly integrates and feeds data to your CRM while also protecting your data in a closed environment.
Scalability: Institutions can scale their marketing efforts across diverse demographics and platforms without requiring proportional increases in resources, helping smaller teams achieve broader reach.
Potential cons with AI in higher education marketing
Despite its advantages, AI in higher education marketing could pose significant risk or create unforeseen challenges if not managed with care:
Data privacy issues: The use of AI requires collecting and analyzing large amounts of personal data, raising concerns about compliance with privacy regulations such as GDPR or FERPA. Data security, privacy, and management are top concerns on campuses. It is incredibly important that you are utilizing tools that not only secure your data but that you are managing that data ethically. AI governance requires thoughtful planning and ongoing management. RNL works closely with partners who wish to devise a governance framework whether or not you are implementing AI tools.
Bias in algorithms: AI systems may inadvertently perpetuate biases present in training data, leading to unfair targeting or exclusion of certain student groups.
Round peg, square hole syndrome: Many AI solutions are not created for higher ed and do not account for the specific, complex needs that colleges and universities have compared to other consumer or B2B industries.
Loss of human touch: Over-reliance on AI can make interactions feel impersonal, potentially alienating prospective students who value human connection. Working with your team to talk about appropriate uses for AI, proper proofreading, and quality control is key. My colleague Dr. Raquel Bermejo discussed the need to balance technology and human connection with students.
Implementation costs: While AI promises cost savings over time, initial setup costs for advanced tools and training staff can be prohibitive for some institutions. Work closely with a trusted partner/vendor to ensure you are getting the best bang for your buck. Embracing AI may require investment, but it should yield so much more in return.
Be aware of all the pros and cons as you evaluate your AI options
In summary, while AI enhances efficiency and personalization in higher education marketing, institutions must navigate ethical challenges, potential biases, and implementation hurdles to maximize its benefits responsibly.
We cannot, however, let the possible risks prevent our institutions from maximizing this tremendous capacity-building tool. As a 50+ year veteran in higher education, RNL has a unique understanding of your campus environment, the likely trepidation, the potential hurdles to adoption, and the risk of inaction. That is why we are investing in AI development that is built just for you, your students, and your campus needs. Coupled with RNL’s renowned consulting expertise, governance support, strict attention to data privacy, and industry-leading marketing and enrollment solutions, we can help you and your campus use AI to advance your mission and achieve your goals while minimizing risk and campus pushback.
Discover RNL Edge, the AI solution for higher education
RNL Edge is a comprehensive suite of higher education AI solutions that will help you engage constituents, optimize operations, and analyze data instantly—all in a highly secure environment that keeps your institutional data safe. With limitless uses for enrollment and fundraising, RNL Edge is truly the AI solution built for the entire campus.
Let’s be real: college planning is not the only thing on your prospective students’ minds. They’re juggling school, jobs, relationships, social media, and, you know, just trying to figure out life. So, when we talk about AI in college planning, it’s crucial to remember that it’s just one piece of a much larger puzzle.
At RNL, we’re constantly looking at the trends shaping higher education, and AI is definitely a big one. But here’s the thing: it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. To truly connect with students, you need to understand how they’re using (or not using) these tools, and meet them where they are.
It’s all about personas
Our latest research dives deep into student attitudes toward AI in college planning, and the results are fascinating. We’ve identified four key “AI Adoption Personas” that can help you tailor your outreach and messaging:
Pioneers (early adopters, enthusiastic users): These digital natives are all-in on AI, using it for everything from college research to essay writing.
Key takeaway: Pioneers are already on board but value human guidance. 76% would feel more comfortable if a school advisor explained the benefits and risks of AI.
Aspirers (interested but cautious adopters): Aspirers see the potential of AI but need a little nudge.
Key takeaway: Show them the value! 51% are motivated by easy access to free AI tools, and 41% want to see success stories from other students.
Fence Sitters (uncertain, passive users): These students are on the fence about AI, often lacking confidence in their current college planning approach. Y
Key takeaway: Don’t overwhelm them. 40% haven’t even used online college planning tools! Focus on highlighting the potential of AI and offering advisor support.
Resistors (skeptical, avoid AI in college planning): Resistors are the most reluctant to embrace AI, preferring traditional methods like guidance counselors and college websites.
Key takeaway: Respect their preferences, but don’t write them off entirely. 48% would feel more comfortable with an advisor explaining AI, even if they’re not ready to use it themselves.
Beyond the bots: human connection still matters
No matter which persona your students fall into, one thing is clear: human connection still matters. While AI can provide valuable information and streamline certain tasks, it can’t replace the empathy, guidance, and personalized support students crave.
Think about it: choosing a college is a huge life decision, and students want to feel understood and supported throughout the process.
Our research shows that students use a variety of resources for college planning, and these often involve human interaction:
College websites (often reviewed with parents or counselors)
Parents/family (a trusted source of advice and support)
Social media (connecting with current students and alumni)
Guidance counselors (providing expert advice and personalized recommendations)
Friends/peers (sharing experiences and offering encouragement)
Books/online articles (supplementing their knowledge and exploring different options)
AI is just one tool in their toolbox. It’s a powerful tool, no doubt, but it works best when it complements these other resources, rather than replacing them.
What does this mean for you?
It means your staff—admissions counselors, enrollment specialists, and marketing team—are more important than ever. They are the human face of your institution, who can build relationships with prospective students, answer their questions, and alleviate their anxieties.
The good news is that institutions already know this. Our 2025 Marketing Practices For Undergraduate Students Report confirms that “human-based” enrollment strategies are consistently rated highly effective, often more effective than just two years ago.
For example, the report shows that:
In-person meetings remain a top strategy across all institution types (4-year private, 4-year public, and 2-year), with effectiveness ratings consistently at or near 100%.
Personalized videos sent directly to students have seen a significant rise in effectiveness, particularly for 4-year institutions.
Even with the rise of digital tools, strategies like SMS, social media, and email communications remain foundational and highly effective, largely because they enable personalized, one-on-one communication.
These findings underscore that in an increasingly digital world, the human touch truly sets institutions apart.
Here are a few ways to bring that human touch to your college planning efforts:
Invest in training for your staff. Ensure they understand AI’s benefits and limitations, and how to integrate it ethically and effectively into their work.
Encourage personalized communication. Don’t rely solely on automated emails and chatbots. Encourage your staff to contact students individually, offering tailored advice and support.
Create opportunities for connection. Host virtual or in-person events where students meet current students, faculty, and staff.
Highlight the human stories. Share stories of successful alumni, dedicated faculty, and supportive staff. Show prospective students what makes your institution unique.
Ultimately, success in today’s ever-evolving higher education landscape hinges on a delicate balance: embracing the power of technology like AI while never losing sight of the fundamental importance of human connection.
By deeply understanding your students – their individual needs, their preferred college planning resources, and their unique “AI Adoption Persona” – and leveraging data to personalize their experience, you can create an effective and genuinely human recruitment and enrollment strategy.
It’s about blending the efficiency of AI with the empathy and guidance that only your dedicated staff can provide, ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and confident in their college journey.
Ready to dive deeper?
Do you want to learn more about AI in college planning and how to connect with today’s students?
Having spent years in higher education enrollment and marketing, I’ve know firsthand the dedication it takes to connect with prospective students and ensure their success, keenly aware of the immense effort required, the daily challenges teams face in standing out amidst a sea of institutions, and the ever-increasing workloads they manage. And, at the center of all of this is a profound passion for making a real difference in students’ lives and a deep commitment to the unique mission of each university.
The exciting prospect I see now is how artificial intelligence can actually empower us to achieve these very goals more effectively, without sacrificing the crucial human touch that is critical to the student experience.
The true power of AI at universities
The true power of AI in student engagement isn’t about replacing people; it’s about freeing up our teams to invest their time and energy where it truly matters – nurturing meaningful relationships with students. By automating routine tasks and offering valuable data-driven insights, AI provides us with a unique opportunity to connect with students on a deeper level. We can better understand their individual needs and interests, allowing us to provide personalized support that genuinely sets them up for success.
AI can help enrollment teams sift through hundreds of thousands of inquiries to find those students who will find their path in life thanks to the unique offerings of their university. I don’t know an enrollment team that says they are fully staffed, and AI will give our already stretched teams more time back in their day to really connect with these prospective students. The reward of seeing these students thrive on campus and later succeed in their chosen fields, knowing you played a part in their journey, is deeply fulfilling and why many of us work in higher education.
Discover RNL Edge, the AI solution for higher education
RNL Edge is a comprehensive suite of higher education AI solutions that will help you engage constituents, optimize operations, and analyze data instantly—all in a highly secure environment that keeps your institutional data safe. With limitless uses for enrollment and fundraising, RNL Edge is truly the AI solution built for the entire campus.
And let’s consider the experience students have once they are on campus. It’s not just about sitting in class and absorbing information; it’s about navigating a complex environment, discovering one’s place and passion, and building a foundation for the future. Students need guidance, encouragement, and consistent support throughout this journey. This is where the human element is indispensable. AI can be a powerful tool in identifying students who may be facing challenges, enabling us to offer targeted support and help them overcome obstacles that might otherwise slow or even block their progress.
Beyond simply reacting to challenges, AI can empower us to be more proactive. It can help us identify students who might be at risk academically or personally, so we can provide timely support before they fall behind and withdraw. It can also help us tailor our teaching methods to better suit the diverse needs of individual learners, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. And crucially, AI can help us measure the effectiveness of our programs faster, making the goal of data-informed decisions for continuous improvement possible across the university.
Ultimately, the goal of using AI at your university should be to cultivate a more personalized, more effective, and more compassionate learning environment. It’s about empowering students to reach their full potential and making a lasting positive impact on their lives. By integrating AI in a way that enhances, rather than replaces, human interaction, we can build a more supportive, more present, and more successful learning experience for every student. If you are ready to learn more about how AI can help your university, schedule a discovery session with RNL to see firsthand how AI can empower your teams, enhance student experiences, and drive academic success.
As AI continues to weave its way into our lives, it’s no surprise that high school students are increasingly turning to these tools for college planning. However, our recent study, The AI Divide in College Planning: Students Adoption, Resistance, and Impact, conducted by RNL and TeenVoice, reveals that students aren’t all the same when it comes to AI. Some love it, some are curious but cautious, and some are unsure. Our study identified “Four Faces” of AI adoption among high school students, each with distinct characteristics:
AI Pioneers (33%): These tech-savvy students embrace AI with enthusiasm and trust its capabilities. Representing a significant portion of younger teens, they actively use AI in their college search.
AI Aspirers (33%): The largest group, they are curious but cautious, motivated by the practical benefits AI offers, especially in helping with making scholarship searches, career planning, and college research more efficient. They are prevalent among 15- and 16-year-old teens.
AI Fence Sitters (19%): Uncertain about AI’s role, they rely on traditional methods but are open to compelling evidence. This group, often older teens, requires more information and reassurance.
AI Resistors (9%): Preferring human interaction, they resist AI due to unfamiliarity. However, they are open to learning from trusted advisors like school counselors. This group is more common among Asian/Pacific Islanders and older teens, and in the West and Northeast.
Overall, the Pioneers and Aspirers tended to be the younger high school students, while those hesitant about using AI in the college planning were more likely to be from the 2025 incoming class. A key takeaway from this study is that if you are not already thinking about how to “wow” potential students with AI tools, you need to start. Similar to how admitted student portals evolved from a novelty to a necessity, intuitive AI tools for college planning will soon become a student expectation.
AI can deliver the 24/7 engagement that prospective students expect
Consider the potential of AI-powered chat tools or digital assistants that provide instant application status updates, personalized program recommendations, or streamlined scholarship searches. Students expect 24/7 accessibility and seamless navigation throughout the application process and their college experience. Or use AI to add personalized videos throughout your enrollment communication plan. AI can help you identify what is important to individual students and build video content that speaks directly to them like never before.
In addition, the research clearly shows students still rely on the people in their circle they trust the most—their family, high school guidance counselors, and friends. That’s not at risk of changing anytime soon. AI is an addition, not a replacement. It gives us another way to connect, becoming more important every day. However, as more students move into the AI Pioneer group, integrating AI becomes an essential part of your recruitment mix.
Understanding how students adopt AI will help you meet their expectations
Here’s the bottom line: AI isn’t some far-off idea anymore; its already changing what students expect from us. By understanding the “Four Faces of AI Adoption,” you can tailor your engagement strategies to meet students where they are. And embracing AI tools like digital assistants and personalized content creation will not only enhance your university’s appeal but also streamline the study journey and free up time for you to have more real conversations with them.
Are you ready to embrace the AI revolution in higher education? If you’re new to AI or seeking to enhance your understanding, RNL’s free online course, “AI Essentials for Higher Education Professionals,” is an excellent starting point. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate this evolving landscape and ensure your institution remains at the forefront of student engagement. Start your AI education today!
AI is here, and it is here to stay, which means that academia needs to incorporate it so that students learn about AI’s capability and are ready to use it properly. The most complained about issue in writing classes today is that students simply use AI to write their essays for them and, in the process, do not learn anything and use AI improperly. “The Anders 4 Phase AI Method of Writing Instruction,” is able to overcome these issues. This instructional method develops students’ writing skills while teaching AI literacy, which includes critical thinking. Different aspects of this method can also be applied to other courses/assignments. The Anders 4 Phase AI Method of Writing Instruction is a much-needed new way to develop writing in a way that better aligns with the new realities of how many people are already writing with AI.
Key Components (the four phases):
Foundational Writing Skills Development: instruction and assessment on key aspects of writing such as sentence structure, paragraph structure, transitional sentences, use of personal voice, researching, outlining, thesis statements, and any other needed writing components. Done through: multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and short in-class writing.
Understanding of Different Essay Types: instruction and assessment on key aspects of different essay types done through multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and short in-class writing
Prompt Engineering Development: instruction and assessment on prompt engineering using an advanced prompt formula, the ability to create effective prompts for AI to generate good essays that have proper formatting, student voice, and accurate information. Evaluated via multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank tests, and in-class writing of prompts and additional drafting.
Use of AI for Writing with Full Personal Accountability: assessment on specific essay creation done via student submission of essays developed through the use and assistance of AI. Additional in-class exams on key contents and periodic student presentations on created essays (to help ensure student accountability of knowledge integration).
Key Benefits:
Develops students’ foundational knowledge of writing and ability to create multiple essay types
Eliminates issues with students inappropriately using AI to write essays without fully understanding writing components
Reduces instructors’ stress/anxiety in feeling the need to run AI detection tools (no longer needed)
Helps to directly develop students’ understanding of effective writing while simultaneously developing their critical thinking, AI literacy, and ethical AI use skills
A much more detailed description of this method is available through the Sovorel Center for Teaching & Learning YouTube educational Channel:
Let’s talk about how students really tackle college planning. Forget the stereotypes about Gen Z being glued to their phones or allergic to human interaction. Our latest research reveals something more interesting: there isn’t just one type of college searcher anymore.
In our recent research with TeenVoice we identified four distinct personalities in how students approach their college planning, especially when it comes to using AI tools. And trust me, the results might surprise you!
Meet the cast of characters
First are the AI Pioneers – your early adopters who aren’t afraid to try new things. They’re all over college websites (62% of them use them!), but here’s the kicker: they still heavily rely on counselors (46%) and family input (48%). These students aren’t replacing human connection with technology; they combine both. They’re natural experimenters, comfortable jumping between digital and traditional resources to find what works best for each task.
Then there’s the AI Resistors. Despite their name, these students aren’t living under a rock – they’re actually the most likely to use counselors (55%). They’re old school in the best way possible, preferring face-to-face conversations over digital solutions. They are the “let’s grab a coffee and talk about it” crowd. For them, learning is deeply personal and relationship-based.
The AI Aspirers are our “interested but cautious” group. They’re spread evenly across their resources – about 40% use college websites, counselors, and social media. They’re curious about AI but haven’t fully embraced it yet. Think of them as methodical learners who want to understand all their options before diving in.
Finally, we have the AI Fence Sitters. These students are taking a more minimal approach across the board. They use college websites (40%) and family advice (38%), but they’re less likely to engage with any resource intensively. They might be overwhelmed by choices or still finding their preferred learning style.
The bigger picture: it’s about learning styles, not just tools
Here’s what makes these personas so fascinating: they’re not just about technology preferences. They reveal fundamental differences in how students learn, process information, and make decisions. The AI Pioneer isn’t just tech-savvy; they’re likely an active learner who thrives on exploring multiple information channels. The AI Resistor isn’t anti-technology; they’re probably someone who processes information best through dialogue and personal interaction.
Remember when we started talking about differentiated instruction in education? How we recognized that students learn differently and need various pathways to success? Well, these personas are telling us the same story about college planning. Some students will grasp complex college decisions better through AI-powered interactive tools, while others need face-to-face conversations to process the same information, and that’s OK, or it should be!
The evolution of college planning
This isn’t just about adding new tools to the toolbox. It’s about recognizing that the college planning journey itself looks different for each student. An AI Pioneer might start their search with ChatGPT, bounce to a college’s website, then validate their findings with a counselor. An AI Resistor might begin with a counselor meeting, use that framework to explore college websites, and rely on family discussions to process what they’ve learned.
Think about it: we’ve spent decades in K-12 education adapting to different learning styles – visual, auditory, kinesthetic, you name it. Isn’t it time we brought that same thoughtful approach to college planning? Our research suggests students are already naturally gravitating toward their preferred learning styles. Now it’s our turn to meet them there!
Supercharge your enrollment outreach with AI
RNL’s enrollment experts can help you understand how AI can help you engage more students on a personalized level at a scale your institution can handle. Ask for a complimentary consultation and we’ll discuss the best ways to add AI to your toolkit.
Understanding these personalities is only helpful if it leads to action. So, how can colleges adapt?
1. Mix it up, but keep it human
Every group, even the most tech-savvy, still values real human connections. AI can be useful, but it shouldn’t replace personalized outreach. Offer multiple ways for students to engage—AI chat tools, live Q&A sessions, and good old-fashioned phone calls.
2. Optimize college websites for different search styles
Since college websites are a top resource across all groups, they must serve different user preferences. Consider interactive AI tools for Pioneers and Aspirers while ensuring Resistors and Fence Sitters can easily find traditional contact options.
3. Equip counselors with the right tools
Counselors are still a major influence, especially for Resistors. Provide them with updated guides, resources, and training so they can confidently support all types of students—whether AI-driven or not.
4. Keep families in the loop
Parents remain a critical influence in college decisions. Institutions should create family-friendly resources that explain AI tools while reinforcing the importance of personal conversations.
5. Offer AI as an option—not a requirement
Some students love AI, and some won’t touch it. The key is providing flexibility. Let students decide how they engage rather than pushing AI as the default solution.
The bottom line
College planning isn’t one-size-fits-all (if it ever was). Some students will embrace AI, while others prefer traditional methods. The most successful institutions will be those that respect these differences, offering flexible pathways that meet students where they are—not where we think they should be. Because, at the end of the day, college search is personal. Whether students chat with AI, sit down with a counselor, or lean on family advice, what truly matters is that they feel supported in finding the right fit.
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Learn more in our webinar
Be sure to watch our webinar, The Four Faces of AI In College Planning, where we will dive into these personas and what we have learned about them. During our session, we will discuss how to:
Identify and understand student personas: Gain practical insights into the four distinct student personas.
Optimize AI tool strategies: Develop actionable strategies to effectively integrate AI tools in college planning, tailored to meet the needs and preferences of each student persona, ensuring maximum engagement and support.
Enhance communication and support systems: Learn how to implement communication and support systems that resonate with each persona, utilizing a blend of digital outreach, peer interaction, and traditional counseling to create a comprehensive support environment.
AI skills are now needed by all students in every field and organization. This document focuses on the top ten industries/organizations, explains how AI is already being used in those fields, and breaks down the AI skills and subskills needed by all students.
AI Literacy is an imperative that all students need to develop in order to be more competitive and effective in the workforce, to enhance their own learning, gain greater access to information, improve their research capabilities, and be better citizens with resistance to deepfakes and digital propaganda. This isn’t a hyperbally or future concern; this is the reality of today. “Use of AI in Industries and Organizations: 2025” is an original document created by the Sovorel Center for Teaching & Learning and written by Director Brent A. Anders, PhD. Its purpose is to help all of academia see and understand the real need for AI Literacy and specific AI skills for all fields.
In an effort to help all of academia and the rest of the world, this document is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0) so that it can be fully used by others.
