Harvard “clones” its professors with artificial intelligence: the avatars that teach outside the classroom

The adoption of AI-driven digital avatars in prestigious academic institutions, such as Harvard, marks a paradigm shift in business pedagogy. This tool enables students and entrepreneurs to practice critical skills, such as investor presentations, through immersive simulations featuring photorealistic replicas of their professors. The initiative aims to democratize access to professional practice by providing immediate, round-the-clock feedback, thereby expanding learning opportunities beyond traditional constraints of time and space. However, the pedagogical effectiveness of these systems remains under scrutiny due to the lack of independent and longitudinal evaluations. Although users report increased confidence and accuracy in their presentations, critics point out that without rigorous data, there is a risk that these technologies may function more as marketing tools than as validated educational resources. Moreover, the reliance on human supervision to correct errors or update the avatar’s knowledge introduces variables in quality and consistency that could compromise the reliability of learning if not properly managed. This trend is particularly relevant to the open data movement, as it raises fundamental challenges concerning intellectual property, algorithmic transparency, and digital identity. The need to regulate the use of synthesized images and voices, coupled with concerns about the lack of faculty involvement in the implementation of these technologies, underscores the urgency of establishing clear standards. Ensuring that AI-generated content is identifiable and that academic rights are protected is crucial for maintaining intellectual integrity in an increasingly digitalized and automated educational environment.

Source: infobae.com
Published on 2026-10-24

Harvard “clones” its professors with artificial intelligence: the avatars that teach outside the classroom

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