Hazel Downing at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing last December.
HPU Associate Professor Hazel Downing, RN, Ed.D, has had a busy fall semester last year with her second presentation in two months, this time presenting in Anaheim, California from December 4-6, 2025, at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Her presentation, titled Nursing Faculty Role in the Age of AI, addressed the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and its growing presence in nursing education.
Downing noted that while AI offers powerful tools, nursing faculty may feel challenged or overwhelmed by its capabilities, and some educators may lack confidence in integrating AI effectively into their teaching. Her presentation explored how faculty can thoughtfully incorporate AI as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional pedagogical approaches.
“The role of nursing educators is significant to harnessing the potential of AI tools without compromising the core values of a well-rounded and human-centered nursing education. The increasing number of AI tools in education necessitates a careful examination by faculty of their impact on the nursing profession,” Downing said. “Such a role among nursing educators is significant to harnessing its potential without compromising the core values of a well-rounded and human-centered nursing education. This step is required to maintain a strong commitment to prioritizing human connection, critical thinking, and safety in nursing education.”
While AI can offer valuable support, the importance of the fundamental learning principles in nursing education should not be compromised, Downing concluded.
To learn more about the AACN conference, click here.
