Artificial Intelligence in Learning Centers
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Official Position Statement
Ethical & Educationally Sound Engagement with AIThe International College Learning Center Association recognizes that artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are reshaping higher education. As an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in learning center administration, program design, evaluation, and research, ICLCA offers this statement to guide ethical and educationally sound engagement with AI in post-secondary learning assistance. Learning centers exist to cultivate empowered learners whose autonomy is shaped through relationship-rich, socially constructed learning; any use of AI must ultimately reinforce both student agency and authentic academic engagement. AI tools may assist learning, but they must not replace the cognitive processes, reflective practice, and relational engagement that are foundational to student growth. Learning assistance professionals are responsible for ensuring that AI integration aligns with learning science, supports metacognitive development, and reinforces academic integrity. Core PrinciplesLearning-Centered PracticeAI should enhance durable learning, critical thinking, and skill development rather than promote shortcut completion of academic tasks. Human-Centered EngagementLearning is relational. AI cannot replace dialogue, mentorship, peer-assisted learning, or the professional judgment of learning center staff. Integrity and TransparencyLearning centers should model ethical AI use consistent with institutional policies and clearly communicate expectations regarding appropriate use. Professional Leadership and ResponsibilityLearning centers should translate institutional policy into clear, local practice guidelines, provide staff training, participate in campus-wide AI conversations, and evaluate emerging technologies through research-informed practice. Advancing the MissionConsistent with its mission, ICLCA will promote professional dialogue, provide development opportunities, support research on AI and learning assistance, and collaborate with related professional associations as this landscape evolves. AI will continue to change. The mission of learning centers will not. Our commitment remains the development of capable, ethical, and self-directed learners through relationship-rich, collaborative learning, prepared to navigate complexity with independence and integrity. |