Beyond AI Literacy: How AI Is Transforming Teaching and Learning with Ryan Lufkin

In this episode of EDU Unlocked, host Ashish Fernando sits down with Ryan Lufkin, Vice President of Global Learning Strategy at Instructure, to explore the growing gap between AI literacy and real-world AI adoption in higher education.
Recorded at Instructure's headquarters in Salt Lake City, the conversation examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping teaching, learning, academic integrity, and student success. Drawing on his extensive experience in education technology, Ryan explains why universities must move beyond experimenting with AI tools and begin rethinking how courses are designed and delivered.
The discussion explores the shift toward skills-based education and why institutions must prepare students for employment while continuing to develop essential human skills such as communication, empathy, and critical thinking. Ryan shares an example of a university professor who uses AI to accelerate product design activities, creating more time for students to interact with industry professionals and develop practical skills.
Ashish and Ryan also address one of higher education's biggest concerns: academic integrity in the age of generative AI. Rather than relying entirely on AI detection tools or attempting to create AI-proof courses, Ryan argues that institutions should focus on developing more engaging assessments, improving AI literacy among educators, and teaching students how to use AI responsibly.
The conversation then turns to practical AI implementation, including how Canvas supports third-party integrations, the challenges of student data privacy, and examples of universities developing AI-powered learning tools. Ryan also explores the potential of AI-driven personalization to identify students who may be struggling, support timely interventions, and improve student retention.
Despite the growing capabilities of AI tutors and learning assistants, Ryan emphasizes that meaningful human connections remain essential to education. Technology can enhance the learning experience, but the relationships between students, educators, and peers are what make learning truly engaging.
For university leaders, instructional designers, faculty, and EdTech professionals, this episode offers practical insights into AI in higher education, the future of learning management systems, academic integrity, and creating more personalized student experiences.