Ep. 14 Hello Agent Smith: AI Agents in Higher Education

In this episode of Unfixed, Nik and Zach explore the rise of AI agents—autonomous, goal-driven systems that can research, plan, and even collaborate with learners. From inbox triage and coding prototypes to the not-yet-ready world of full computer control, they unpack where agents are already useful on campus and where hype outpaces reality. The conversation turns to higher ed implications: assessment, advising, operations, and governance. Tune in for a clear look at how AI agents are reshaping student learning, faculty work, and the future of universities.Note: Dear listener please forgive the substandard audio. We had a technical malfunction during the recording of this episode.World Economic Forum & Capgemini. Navigating the AI Frontier: A Primer on the Evolution and Impact of AI Agents Google Cloud. “What are AI agents? Definition, examples, and types.”Yan, L. (2025). From Passive Tool to Socio-cognitive Teammate: A Conceptual Framework for Agentic AI in Human-AI Collaborative Learning.Nik Janos, Melts into Air, The Assistant for the Rest of UsUnfixed Podcast, AGI and the Future of Higher Education with Ray SchroederHard Fork, A.I. School Is in Session: Two Takes on the Future of Education.Zach Justus, Melts into Air, AI Is Making Edtech Pricier—and In-House Builds Plausible AgainThoughts and suggestions? Email us at [email protected] can find the full show notes and our writing at meltsintoair.org