AI: Conference Recordings

2024 Future: Forward Conference

Welcome + Acknowledgement of Country

Mark Holyoake - CEO, CEnet

Address + Prayer

Rev Brian G Mascord - Bishop of Wollongong

Foundational moral principles for AI Ethics: Respect for human dignity and promoting the common good

A/Professor David Kirchhoffer - Director, Queensland Bioethics Centre, Australian Catholic University

When thinking about AI ethics, it is important to consider the foundational ethical principles that can guide reflection. Though AI may throw up new ethical issues both in kind and degree, it is likely that what we have always thought valuable will remain so, and what we have always thought were morally acceptable means to achieve those values will likewise remain so. Both Catholic Ethics and secular Human Rights thought have held respect for human dignity and working for the common good to be foundational values. This presentation shows how these principles can guide us through thinking about the ethical issues that AI raises, and the development and application of AI technology in Catholic Education.

Coming soon!

AI in Education

Professor Toby Walsh - Chief Scientist AI Institute, University of NSW

With generative AI tools like Stable Diffusion and ChatGPT in the spotlight, AI is having (one of its many) moments. Yet this is just the tip of the iceberg. What is underneath? What bigger developments are coming? It is time to question some major assumptions. In this engaging talk, Toby Walsh paints a picture of what the future of AI in education will likely look like and what we need to understand about AI today to be ready take advantage of the AI revolution in a way that is positive for the sector.

Coming soon!

Setting the scene: Insights from the education community

Daniel Ingvarson - Director, IAMAI

Student assessment in the world of AI - the two lane system

Professor Adam Bridgeman - Pro Vice-Chancellor (Educational Innovation), University of Sydney

Generative AI is radically changing how and what we assess, with a need to balance assurance of learning with our need to equip our students for a rapidly changing world. In this session, we will focus on these two “lanes”: assessment of learning and assessment for learning.

Steering AI to enhance student engagement and learning

Professor Danny Liu - Professor of Educational Technologies, University of Sydney

Like fire, generative AI is a powerful force. When used well it can be effective for learning, but how do we harness its power and not let it get out of control? This session will cover some ways that educators can take control of generative AI through effective prompting and using tools that let you get in the driver’s seat of AI. Through practical examples of ‘AI doubles’ that academics at the University of Sydney and elsewhere have created, we will also see how AI can improve feedback, personalise learning, save time, and make learning more engaging.

AI and the benefits for students with a disability: Present and Future

Jeanette Davies - Inclusive Specialist

We will explore the current accessibility features on the Apple platform that leverage AI technology. Following this, we will preview upcoming features that promise to further enhance accessibility.

Moving towards meaningful change in the AI landscape

Lee Barrett - Projects Officer, Educator - St Gregory’s College, Campbelltown

Lee will present a roadmap of the journey her school has undertaken to adapt and ultimately, change, in the AI landscape. As she discusses the highs and lows of the experience, attendees will discover how unique each response to AI needs to be, whilst adhering to some universal codes of conduct and practice.

AI in an education context

Dr Ian Opperman - Industry Professor, Director Connectivity Innovation Network, Faculty of Engineering and IT University of Technology Sydney

There is a lot being said about AI - friend or foe. This presentation explores applications of AI and provides frameworks for "AI Assurance".

ESG in tech: Balancing innovation with responsibility

Noel Jarrett - Principal, Lucent Strategic & former Chief Data and AI Officer, Telstra

This presentation examines balancing innovation with ethical responsibility in AI implementation within education. Drawing on my experience with ESG challenges, I will discuss integrating ethical AI principles into educational strategies, promoting sustainable and responsible AI practices. Topics include ensuring AI transparency, accountability, and fairness, and compliance with ethical standards. Real-world examples will demonstrate how educational institutions can leverage AI initiatives to enhance reputation, drive growth, and build resilience while contributing positively to society.

Students’ voice: What real students think of AI [Panel]

Magdalene Catholic College + St. Gregory’s College

AI and the Future of School Mental Health: Unleashing the Potential

Professor Bridianne O’Dea - Little Heroes Professor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Flinders University

This talk will provide an overview of some of the recent development in AI technology for improving our understanding and approaches to school-based mental health.

Gen AI in Catholic Ed: Finding our True North

Prem Radhakrishnan - AI Technical Manager, CEnet

"This presentation explores the critical intersection of Generative AI and Catholic K-12 education in Australia. As AI promises to reshape the educational landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities for personalised learning and improved student outcomes, it also presents unique challenges to our values and teaching practices.

We'll examine the current state of AI adoption in our schools and explore the different considerations and responsibilities this presents to organisations and education leaders. We'll discuss the potential transformation of teaching roles, the impact on student well-being, and the debate between custom and off-the-shelf AI solutions. The presentation aims to stimulate critical thinking about our vision for AI in Catholic education and the steps needed to realise it."

Women at the Forefront: Shaping the Future of AI with Advanced Automations

Dr Nici Sweaney - Director, Ai Her Way

Exploring the critical role of women in AI, this session highlights why gender diversity is essential in shaping technology that serves all of society. We'll discuss the barriers hindering gender equity in AI and outline strategic solutions to overcome these challenges. Focusing on the education sector, we'll demonstrate how AI-driven automations can significantly reduce teacher workload and burnout, showcasing practical examples and success stories from Ai Her Way. Discover how empowering women in AI leads to innovative educational solutions and a more equitable technological future. Join us to explore how female leadership is not just beneficial but essential for the progressive evolution of AI in our schools and communities.