Intelligent Ideological-Political Education: How AI Reshapes Chinese Higher Education

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into ideological and political education (IPE) is reshaping pedagogical practices in Chinese higher education, yet its conceptual boundaries, operational challenges, and ethical implications remain underexplored. This study critically examines the emerging paradigm of AI-empowered IPE through a mixed-methods approach, combining policy analysis, case studies of technology implementation, and interviews with educators. Findings reveal three core tensions: the disconnect between algorithmic efficiency and humanistic values in curriculum design, the risks of over-reliance on predictive analytics for student ideological assessment, and institutional unpreparedness to address ethical dilemmas such as data privacy and algorithmic bias. To reconcile technological innovation with the mission of fostering socialist core values, the paper proposes a dual-path framework: advancing AI-driven adaptive learning tools while embedding critical humanistic oversight mechanisms. Recommendations include cross-sector collaboration among policymakers, educators, and AI developers to establish ethical guidelines, competency training for teachers in AI literacy, and student-centered evaluations balancing technological metrics with qualitative growth. This research contributes to redefining IPE’s digital transformation in China’s sociopolitical context, advocating for a balanced approach that harnesses AI’s potential without compromising ideological education’s humanistic essence.