ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: A GOD OR A TOOL?

ABSTRACT Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool in the field of education, offering enhanced efficiency, personalized learning, and the potential to revolutionize academic practices. However, while AI has proven its utility in various educational contexts, there is growing concern that it may be perceived as a substitute for human intellect and educators, rather than as a tool to complement their work. This paper aims to explore the role of AI in education, emphasizing the need for it to be seen as a tool rather than a god. Through a systematic literature review of six recent papers published in 2025, this study examines the benefits and limitations of AI in academia, exploring how AI can enhance student engagement, improve academic outcomes, and streamline educational processes. It also discusses the dangers of over-reliance on AI, highlighting the importance of maintaining human oversight and engagement to preserve the integrity of academic work. The findings suggest that AI can be a powerful academic partner, but its role should be carefully managed to prevent diminishing critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and human interaction in the learning process. The paper concludes with a call for a balanced approach to AI integration in education, where AI is leveraged as a tool to support, not replace, human-driven educational practices. Furthermore, it proposes directions for future research to ensure that AI is used ethically and effectively in academic settings.