V. Plevris, “A Glimpse into the Future of Civil Engineering Education: The New Era of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Large Language Models”, Journal of Civil Engineering Education, 151(2) (10.1061/JCEECD.EIENG-2193), 2025.
Introduction:
In recent years, the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) into education has revolutionized the field, creating opportunities for enhancing teaching and learning. This transformation is significant in the domain of civil engineering, where students must grasp complex theoretical concepts and acquire extensive practical knowledge to succeed in their careers. This demand necessitates innovative approaches that can provide personalized, efficient, and effective learning experiences. AI, with its ability to process vast amounts of data and learn from patterns, is uniquely positioned to meet these demands. Large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, have shown potential in providing personalized learning experiences, offering real-time assistance, and automating tasks. These capabilities can address some persistent challenges in civil engineering education, such as the need for individualized attention, timely feedback, and catering to different learning needs. In this paper we explore the application of AI, ML, and LLMs, in civil engineering education and highlight five key areas where AI can make a significant impact. We show that the integration of AI technologies in civil engineering education offers benefits, including improved learning outcomes (LOs), efficiency in teaching, and enhanced engagement. However, it also presents challenges. Through a comprehensive exploration of these topics, we aim to provide valuable insights into how AI techniques can be leveraged to enhance the education of civil engineers, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the future of civil engineering education in the age of AI.