At the recent Academic Practice and Technology Conference 2025, Salford Business School’s Lecturer in Law, Craig Smith, presented a case study that explored the integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in legal education. The presentation, titled ‘Arguing with AI: Legal Debates with Generative AI,’ detailed how this innovative approach can enhance critical thinking, legal reasoning and digital skills in students by positioning GenAI as a debating opponent in structured seminar (classroom) debates.
The aim of the research was to demonstrate how this technology could foster inclusive, dynamic and sustainable teaching methods that could be applied across a variety of academic disciplines. The presentation covered the practical application of GenAI in a legal seminar setting, where law students were tasked with preparing arguments around a chosen legal topic before engaging in a live debate with ChatGPT. This interaction allowed students to experience real time counterarguments, challenging their reasoning and prompting them to think on their feet, simulating a professional legal environment.
The presence of the AI opponent created a more equitable environment, providing all students an opportunity to contribute without the pressures of traditional debates, where dominant voices may overshadow others.
Key takeaways
Key takeaways from the session included the recognition that GenAI not only improves critical thinking, but also supports inclusivity and engagement. The presentation also highlighted how GenAI enhances students’ digital literacy and helps prepare them for a technology driven future in legal practice.
The conference served as a platform to share insights into how AI can be used to create more interactive, engaging and inclusive learning environments. This research marks an important step in shaping the future of education, demonstrating that the integration of AI into teaching is not just feasible, but highly beneficial for enhancing learning outcomes and preparing students for a digital future.