The rapid rise of Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping teaching and learning in higher education. Universities are racing to integrate AI into their digital transformation strategies, with initial concerns focused on academic integrity now expanding to include topics such as AI literacy, ethics, misinformation, and data security. More recently, attention has shifted to potential challenges such as cognitive offloading and maintaining active learning in AI-driven environments. Amid these developments, much of the discourse is driven by hype from EdTech, government bodies, and sometimes higher education itself. Promises of personalised learning, AI-powered analytics, automated grading, and AI tutors are often highlighted, but they frequently overshadow established pedagogical-technological knowledge and ignore diverse institutional needs. Equitable and accessible education, especially for students with disabilities, must remain a priority in AI adoption.
This panel will critically assess the current state of AI in higher education, distinguishing between practical innovations and overblown expectations. Experts will explore how collaborations like the Digital Education Council (DEC) and the recently established Cyber-Physical Learning Alliance (CPLA) can help institutions develop informed, context-sensitive AI strategies. The discussion will also address broader trends, such as the shift to remote learning post-COVID, the rise of skills-based education, and the growing focus on digitisation in shaping future cyber-physical learning environments.
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