Using metaphors about Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) to start the difficult conversation

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping higher education by prompting renewed debate about pedagogy, literacy, assessment, and academic responsibility. In this "In Conversation" piece, we explore how to start "that difficult conversation" with colleagues about the place of GenAI in higher education by using metaphors. We present the key lessons learned from six conversations with librarians and colleagues from Academic Literacies, International Relations, Communications, and Science and Innovation. The metaphors themselves are interesting. Some see GenAI in a utilitarian sense as a "combine harvester" or "intergenerational bridge". Problematic and threating metaphors were also described, such as GenAI content as "plastic pollution" and "a reflection of human faults". Finally, we reflect on the usefulness of metaphors as a way to approach and research the topic of GenAI in an open and non-judgemental way. We plan to extend this approach in future research with students.