AI in Theological Education: Anna Robbins on Leadership, Formation, and the Future
Artificial intelligence is already changing how people learn, teach, research, and prepare for ministry. In this episode of The Thinking Teams Podcast, Jason Mills speaks with Dr. Anna Robbins, President of Acadia Divinity College, about how theological schools can respond to AI with wisdom rather than fear.
Their conversation explores what AI may mean for theological education, human formation, institutional leadership, and the future of ministry. It also raises a larger question: How can Christian institutions engage emerging technology while remaining grounded in their theological purpose?
Listen to the Episode
In This Episode
Jason and Anna consider how theological educators can respond thoughtfully to a technology that is developing faster than most institutions can set policy.
- How artificial intelligence is affecting teaching and learning
- What AI means for theological reflection and Christian formation
- Why human relationships remain central to preparing people for ministry
- How institutional leaders can approach technological change
- What theological schools need to consider as AI becomes part of everyday life
About Rev. Dr. Anna Robbins
Rev. Dr. Anna Robbins is President of Acadia Divinity College, Dean of Theology at Acadia University, and the Dr. Millard R. Cherry Professor of Theology, Ethics and Culture. A theologian, ethicist, ordained minister, speaker, and teacher, she has particular interests in apologetics, contemporary culture, and applying Christian theology to the challenge of public life. Before joining Acadia, she spent 12 years teaching and providing academic leadership at the London School of Theology in the United Kingdom.
Why This Conversation Matters
The question facing theological schools is larger than whether students should be permitted to use artificial intelligence. AI is forcing educators to reconsider what learning is for, how formation happens, and which distinctly human capacities theological education must strengthen.
The institutions that respond well will need more than a new academic policy. They will need a clear account of the leaders they are preparing, the communities those leaders will serve, and the kinds of wisdom, character, and relationships that cannot be automated. This is one reason conversations among theological schools, churches, and denominational leaders are becoming increasingly important.
Continue the Conversation
Theological schools, Christian universities, and denominations are navigating questions that cannot be answered by one institution alone. Jason works with leadership teams to facilitate focused conversations, clarify complex challenges, and identify practical next steps.
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