Artificial intelligence (AI) leverages mathematical algorithms to emulate human cognitive abilities, leading to a transformative impact on the education sector. Educators are at the front lines of implementing AI in the classroom. Recent scientific studies demonstrate the capacity of AI, particularly generative models like ChatGPT, to reshape various aspects of education. In a recent study, we showcased that the integration of both artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, and interactive learning activities significantly enhances the engagement levels of STEM students enrolled in a General Biology course. Furthermore, this combined approach not only boosts student engagement but also demonstrates an improvement in their overall performance within the course. Building on preliminary studies, the objective of this review article is to delineate the diverse applications of generative AI in education. To achieve this objective, we conducted a thorough search across scientific databases, including Google Scholar, Science Direct, government websites, and other resources, to collect relevant papers. Our findings underscore the contributions of generative AI, exemplified by ChatGPT, in enabling students to generate innovative text for written assignments, providing personalized feedback, facilitating adaptive learning, enhancing accessibility to education by eliminating barriers for individuals with disabilities, and supporting research endeavors.