Live in the HE Campus at Bett UK 2026, Delia DeCourcy (Lenovo), Dr Helen Crompton (Old Dominion University), Dr Christie Pritchard (University of Plymouth) and Dr Larry Rother (Intel), explored how AI literacy is rapidly becoming a core requirement for workforce readiness.

A new baseline for graduate success

As AI continues to reshape industries at pace, the expectations placed on graduates are shifting just as quickly. What was once considered a specialist skill is now becoming a baseline competency.

Universities are being challenged to move beyond introducing AI tools and instead embed them meaningfully across the student experience. The goal is clear. Graduates must leave education ready to engage with AI confidently in real-world settings.

From specialists to AI power users

A key theme throughout the session was the shift away from training a small group of AI specialists towards empowering a much broader population of AI power users.

As AI tools become more accessible, the value lies in how effectively individuals can apply them to everyday tasks and challenges. This signals a significant shift for Higher Education, where AI capability must now be developed across all disciplines rather than confined to technical pathways.

Rethinking what AI literacy really means

AI literacy is no longer about simply using tools. It requires critical understanding.

There is a growing need to equip students to question outputs, recognise bias, understand data privacy and consider the wider societal impact of AI. Moving beyond surface-level engagement ensures students are not just users of AI, but informed and responsible participants in a technology-driven world.

Bridging the mindset gap

Adoption of AI in education remains complex, shaped by both opportunity and uncertainty.

While many students are motivated by the role AI will play in their future careers, others remain cautious, particularly when it comes to academic integrity. At the same time, educators face competing pressures, from limited time to rapidly evolving guidance.

Clear positioning is essential. AI must be framed as a tool that enhances thinking, not replaces it. Building this shared understanding is key to driving confident and responsible use.

Assessment in the age of AI

The rise of AI is also forcing a rethink of assessment.

Traditional models focused on producing answers are becoming less relevant, with increasing emphasis placed on how students evaluate, critique and apply AI-generated content. This shift highlights the need for more intentional assessment design that reflects real-world skills.

Without this evolution, there is a risk that teaching and assessment approaches fall behind the pace of technological change.

The role of industry collaboration

Closer collaboration between education and industry is helping to bridge the gap between learning and employment.

By aligning curriculum with workplace expectations, partnerships are supporting the development of both technical skills and the broader mindset required to work effectively with AI. These collaborations ensure that learning remains relevant, applied and future-focused.

A foundation for lifelong learning

At its core, the session reinforced a simple but powerful message. Workforce readiness in the age of AI is not about generating answers faster. It is about developing the ability to learn, adapt and think critically alongside technology. 

AI literacy is no longer optional. It is the foundation for lifelong learning and future success.

Within the HE Campus live at Bett, conversations like this are shaping how institutions respond to that challenge. Find out more about the HE Campus live at Bett or check out The Bett Buzz today for even more insights.