This study explores the comparative perspectives of instructors in public administration, general education mathematics, and language education on the forced shift in mindset and non-negotiables surrounding AI integration in their fields. The research aims to compare how these instructors perceived AI’s role in education before its widespread adoption and how their views and teaching practices have evolved in response. Through a qualitative design in an exploratory approach utilizing semi-structured interviews with educators in Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines, the study reveals that while the acceptance of AI has grown, certain non-negotiable teaching practices remain firmly upheld. These practices reflect the educators’ core beliefs about the irreplaceable human elements in teaching, despite the increasing reliance on AI. The findings provide a nuanced understanding of the balance between embracing AI advancements and maintaining educational values across different academic disciplines.