Can Human Engagement and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Co-Exist in the Online Classroom?

Today’s academic environment is faced with a new predicament in trying to understand the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Many online educators are asking “What do I need to know about AI as it applies to academics? How do I prepare my students for careers in the hospitality and tourism industry while trying to balance human engagement with AI? In its current form, AI has created apprehension among higher education stakeholders about developing policies, procedures and usage as they redesign curriculum that supports students who may use AI in their future careers. This manuscript, based on a 2024 ICHRIE Conference Symposium presented by the author will introduce the teaching dilemma, define types of AI, compare where human engagement is currently used in Hospitality and Tourism to where AI could be used, analyze statistics regarding use of AI and offer suggestions regarding methods for designing a balanced online curriculum to support faculty, students and businesses.