Work and Learning in Difficult Times

Open access book published by Sense Publishers (now Brill) in 2015 titled 'Work and Learning in Difficult times. 

The book is volume 4 in a series on research on the education and learning of adults, in turn affiliated to The European Society for Research on the Education of Adults (ESREA)

The book is edited by S. Bohlinger, U. Haake, C. H. Jorgensen and H. Toiviainen.

The introductory chapter by the editors is followed by 15 chapters and a closing concluding chapter by the editors.

Chapters are organised into 3 sections covering the micro, meso and macro levels of working and learning.

The Micro level has 5 chapters beginning with H. Toiviainen on 'Configurations of learning in global work'. The chapter reports on a study of how a multinational engineering company, embarked and changing the ways its many global units worked. The study focused on how new networked ways of work practices development and evolved. CHAT (cultural historical activity theory) is used to unpack the complicated relationships, tasks and objectives of the diverse and distributed workforce. Learning for work was found to be undertaken 'under control', through meaningful work and through participation. 

Chapter 3 by S. Kondrup covers 'worker and learner identity: developing an analytical framework'. Uses Archer's critical realist approach and ideas on personal identity with the influences of natural, practical and social concepts, to understand how worker and learning identities develop. Proposes learner identity as being made up of life (historical) experiences, immediate experiences from specific work situations, and objectified (cultural) knowledge.

Then M. Gessler and A-C Hinrichs with a chapter on 'key predictors of learning transfer in continuing vocational training'. Undertakes a thorough examination of the origins, pros and cons of 'transfer of learning'. Proposes a model based on synthesis of the current understandings in the field.

The next chapter is ' Knowledge development in internships: a case study of students' access to tacit and explicit knowledge in blended learning' by S. Dau. Unpacks the foundational understanding of tacit and explicit knowledge and proposes how blended learning provisions opportunities for attaining both.

The last chapter in the section is by G. Sparrhoff  on 'leaderships in times of globalisation and uncertainty'. Summarises understandings of leadership and proposes principles required to lead in a global world.

The next section has 5 chapters.

T. Back covers 'police students values of competence related to professional career' based in Sweden.

Another one in a similar context to the previous chapter with 'police leadership practice in times of uncertainty and organisational turmoil' by O. Linberg, O. Rantatalo and U. Haake.

Then a chapter by K. Kallio on 'Dilemmas in automation engineers' daily work and changing form of learning'. Studies the changing nature of work and learning for automation engineers using CHAT. Outlines the many challenges and requirements to change and adapt across all aspects of engineering including administrative (i.e. accounting) services. 

R. Ronnqvist, A. Wallo, P. Nilsson and B. Davidson contribute to the chapter 'employee resourcing in elderly care: attracting, recruiting and retaining the right competence'

Followed by another chapter by A. Fejes and P. Andersson in a similar context ' recognition of prior learning within elderly care work'

The last section also has 5 chapters.

Beginning with C. H. Jorgensen on 'challenges for work-based learning in VET in the Nordic Countries'

Then 'Vocational education and school to work transitions in Norway by T. Nyen, A. Skaholt and A.H. Tonder

C. Quesada-Pallares, A. Ciraso-Cali, P.Pineda-Herero and A Janer-Hildalgo write on 'training for innovation in Spain: Analysis of its effectiveness from the perspective of transfer of training'.

Another Spanish context chapter with R. M Hernanxes Carrera and E. Lucio-Villegas with 'VET from the perspective of employer associations in Spain.

The last chapter is by S. Bohlinger on 'governing VET in Europe'. Bases discussion on Germany but the chapter undertakes an outline of European VET policy to find out how these impact on VET. 

The conclusion 'contested field of working and learning' by the editors, closes the book.

All in, a good book to consult for key principles in a range of workplace learning concepts. Most of the chapters, utilise authentic studies to build a contemporary evidence base, albeit within a mainly European context, to inform our continued understanding of work and learning. 

Rethinking Workplace Learning and Development - link to book

 This book published by Elgar Press and written by two well known American researchers on workplace learning - Professor Karen Watkins and Professor Victoria Marsick has the introductory chapter available as pdf. The short chapter provides an overview of the book and each of the chapters. The book's focus is on how the world is now more complex and the need for organisational learning and development to keep up with the times, and to continually prepare the workforce for the present and future challenges.

The book provides a summary of the American perspective on workplace learning, which is founded in Human Resources Management (HRM) as compared to the European / Australian workplace learning scholarship with its more humanistic slant.

C0nCOVE / Tūhura hui - notes taken during the day

 Attended the Construction and Infrastructure Centre of Vocational Education  (ConCOVE) conference today. Missed most of the first keynote in the morning but was able to get to the venue in time to pick up the end of Kaila Coblin's scene setting session to 'build bridges- collaborating for vocational education excellence'.

The next session with 'unlocking potential: systems change for our vision' with  ConCOVE's George Makapatama. Provided the ConCOVE perspective with how the organisation is approaching the important 'systems changes' -firstly to try to identify the problem, before launching into solutions. His presentation drew on his story - growing up in Niue and how his culture grounds his thinking. Connections are important in a collective society. Introduced the concept of 'servantship' which drives his life. Both mean we are all part of a larger whole and draw on this support to progress towards contributing to a better society. Shared the 6 conditions for systems change from the work of Kania, Kramer and Senge (2018) - from structural to transformational change. 

The after morning tea session was with Suzette Dyer from the University of Waikato, who followed on with 'Developing a bystander Theory of Change' for the sector. Shared a ConCOVE project to develop new anti-harassment guidelines - reducing bad behaviour on worksites. Traditional responses are individualised, difficult, may worsen the situation and most often, the victim leaves the workplace. Recommended a collective /whole workplace response which is supportive and leads to fewer negative outcomes. 

Then Eve Price updated on 'Navigating the challenges in Degree Level Apprenticeship'. Introduced the concept. TEC thinks of degree apprenticeships as a way of delivery. For industry, apprenticeship occurs on-job. The term does not exist for NZQA. At the moment WDCs look after qualifications to Level 6. Level 7 degrees are in the university and ITP space. Discussed the pros (equity, retraining, earn and learning, addressing skill shortages etc.). Unpacked using 'systems change' introduced by George and applied to how degree apprenticeships can be promoted and established. ConCOVE is contributing to a pilot next year. 

An update on ConCOVE project fund process with Katherine Hall and Jackie Messame and an overview of the ConCOVE PMO, bookended a 'relationship accelerator - speed idea generation' activity.

After lunch there was a short ConCOVE challenge using slido.com - featuring 11 questions VET, construction industry, rugby, Mātauranga Māori and ConCOVE concepts.

Dr. Kylie Taffart then presented on 'Futures in NZ quarrying'. Introduced the industry - big rocks into small rocks', including sustainability initiatives. Main challenges around health and safety, aging workforce, inclusive workforce, and technology adoption to increase productivity. There are strong connections between quarrying and civil construction. Currently unit standards are too technical. Study is to evaluate what training programmes are available and inform future programmes and industry professional development. Described research method and objectives of the project. Findings from Delphi study indicate the challenges of the need for leadership, health and safety, and legislation and regulations. Recommended set up of advisory group, complete analysis of data, develop a future of quarrying futures scenario and publication of report.

 Josh Williams and Jackie Messame shared a project on 'Transitioning to kaiako (teacher)'. Josh began with stating that high quality VET requires high quality teachers. The world of work and education are still far apart. How do these two worlds come together, especially through industry workers moving into teaching. What are the supports that help the shift people from work into education. Then how do currency and future professional development occur. How can the dual roles and dual professions work together, one informing / drawing from each other between the two identities. VET delivery is complex and in a continual transition/change. Common competencies are technical, education, stakeholder engagement and professional values and commitment. Call for participants to contribute to the project. 

Jackie covered the comparison between on-job and off-job learning. Interviewed, trainees, trainers (supervisors, assessors etc.) to find out what a good were the qualities of a good workplace trainer. Some technical skills but much in the leadership, learning, supervision, and mentoring quadrants. 

After afternoon tea, an activity session with Callum McKirdy on 'inspiration, reflection and action: A journey forward' to gather contributions on how ConCOVE can meet needs of the participants, what was of most interest, and what did we get out of the day. 

The conference then closed with final remarks. Good to meet new people, touch base with familiar kindred spirits, and see how COVEs have developed and their direction.

IADIS CELDA library of conference proceedings

13 years ago, I attended and presented at the IADIS CELDA conference in Timisoara, Romania.I have wonderful memories of the conference. There were about 100 plus attendees / presenters and everyone was very collegial. 

CELDA maintains many useful resources for research in various fields related to education and digital learning. 

Their present site includes a list of Springer books, published as an outcome of papers from their annual conferences. 

Proceedings of all CELDA conferences found at this link .

Journals with affliations to CELDA are listed in this link.

Creative AI tools and ethical implications in teaching and learning (very brief overview of chapters)

This book, edited by J. Keengwe and published 2023 by IGI Global is one of many currently available on AI and education. The book is aimed at practitioners and covers a range of articles, with a focus on ethical issues.

There are 13 chapters.

The first three cover ethical responsibilities and issues as they pertain to education, the second chapter focuses on higher education.

Chapter 4 relates to literacy development in the school sector.

The fifth chapter looks into the ethical issues when AI is used to help optimise student learning.

Chapter 6 has an interesting approach that discusses the rise of ChatGPT and how it has affected Bloom's taxonomy's learning stages.

Chapter 7 returns to ethical issues, specifically to Gen AI tools.

The eighth chapter introduces and discusses AI game activities and how these may be integrated into teaching and learning.

The next chapter covers how Gen AI can be used in higher education.

Then chapter 10 reports on challenges and risks.

Chapter 11 covers the processes of responsible implementation of AI into education.

chapter 12 is on the impact of Chatbots on student engagement and learning outcomes.

The last chapter brings the various discussions together and proposes ethical guidelines for using AI in education. Overall, a 'one-stop' shop for reference on AI and its ethical implications on education.

Monash University - 10 minute chats on AI

Monash University's (Melbourne, Australia) Teach HQ which supports teaching and learning, has a series of on-line chats on Gen AI.  The presenters include learning specialists, researchers and thought leaders (from the UK, US 0f A  and Australia) in teaching and learning, technology-enhanced learning and on assessments..

The first video in with Mike Sharples from the Open University in the UK recorded in May. The videos are labelled by presenter name but the drop-down menu, indicates the topic presented. Worth dipping in and out of as the talks range across many aspects of AI including ethics, impact from the sustainability point of view, the many dimensions of AI literacy, and tensions / power relationships through the use of Gen AI. 

Worth the time to listen to relevant recordings as they drill down dipper into the hype of Gen AI, the press to integrate AI into education (there are pluses, minuses and consequences), and the broader social issues that cannot be solved through utilising Gen AI. 

 

WATTLE forum 2023 (Wollongong Academy for Tertiary Teaching and Learning Excellence

 Dropped in and out of presentations convened by the University of Wollongong's WATTLE. The forum centred around 'InspirED Horizons': Embracing educational innovation and Gen AI. I attended the Gen AI streams, which occurred in the early evening NZ time (afternoon in Australia). 

Missed most of the beginning as I was facilitating a workshop. began with the sessions just after 4.30pm NZ time on 'assessment and academic integrity. There were 3 short 5 minute presentations followed by a Q & A session. 

Firstly with Dr. Vinod Gopaldasani et al. on 'empowering academics' assessment feedforward using an agile chatbot'. Created, trained chatbot which was adaptable and scalable across all subjects. Goal to reduce 'redundancies' i,e, repeated questions from student email. Used dialogflow (similar to Google Bard), piloted with one assessment (undergraduate first year course with quiz, reflection and essay). Able to link the chatbot to course Moodle site. Showed examples of 'training' and presently collecting data, identify language nuances, continued training and asked for collaboration with other courses.

Followed by Dr. Jane Al Kouba et al. with 'unrestricted data exploration and plagiarism-resistant assessments during a 'lab data generator'. Create opportunity for students to learn through failure. The sessions mitigate plaigiarism as the lab data generator simulations replicates lab activity with various permutations and unique datasets for each student. Feedback from students of process being easy to use, and enhanced learning. 

Then 'UOW age of integrity -gamifying academic integrity' with Dr. Zeenath Reza Khan (recorded presentation). Summarised concerns around plagiarism. Some lag and problems with sound in this presentation :( Introduced game-based training as a solution. The GAIV project created a game-based system to educate students about plagiarism. 

A Q & A and networking /afternoon tea session followed.

Then watched the keynote at 5.30pm NZ time by Professor Michael Sankey via zoom on 'embracing student innovation in the age of Generative AI'. Both Covid and Gen AI have challenged academic integrity. Gen AI has revolutionised the way we write and work. Argues that adopting a disposition that embrased innovation is the only option. Gen AI is now here, it might morph but will not go away. Important to re-evaluate how we go about teaching and assessing. Students need to be helped to process information in different ways - how do we scaffold students to use Gen AI?? This approach provides opportunities to contribute to the growth of knowledge. 

Challenged the audience to imagine how our students can be more productive, from the beginning of their degree. Not only find knowledge but to extend it. Shared the model of contemporary technology-enhanced learning (TEL) ecology and went through how it interacted. Proposed AI has another tool on top of the current TEL tools accept that it can be integrated (e.g. LMS) to support learning more effectively. Summarised the progress of digital ecology, into the cloud, through better interfaces between the various systems (e.g. LTI$xAPI connecting student and learning management systems - walled to open garden etc.). Learning also shifting towards more participatory creation (sort of). 

Proposed we do not need a new LMS but that learning has evolved beyond what LMS can provide. Shared the key technologies and practices in the 2023 Educause Horizon report - particularly AI-enabled applications for predictive and personal learning, Gen AI, blurring boundaries between learning modalities, hyflex, microcredentials etc. Discussed the uses of Anthology - which is integrated into Blackboard LMS. Current challenge shows low attendance, a hangover from Covid and need of students to work to finance their studies. micro-credential have a place but do not provide full solution. 

Also shared the progress with the metaverse and AI will only increase its expansion and reach. Teams chat is used across industry, not discussion forums like LMSs. Study time for students has to be flexible and some pay others to complete their course work (see chegg)

Moved on to Gen AI (see weforum)- pluses and minuses. Argued for the need to teach students how to use Gen AI. AI literacy a key to ensure students understand Gen AI limitations and the need to fact check its outputs. Proposed the need to support students to become creators and be productive. Ai can provide instant feedback on students' writing, simplify complex information and scaffold information on specific tasks. Useful for neuro-divergent and second language learners. Not just to consume but to also be creators of new learning resources. Shared results of Charles Darwin U survey with academic staff. Use of AI still emergent. Then shared the 10 CDU priorities for assessment. Reduce emphasis on final high stakes exams. reduce propensity for wide-spread quizzes for important assessments. Look for opportunities for course wide assessments. Weight assessments aligned to level of learning. Increase emphasis on formative feedback 'for learning'. Design active, collaborative, authentic assessments. Increase use of work integrated learning. Assessments for inclusion and use of multimodal assessments. Reduce essays and long form text.

Drew on work of Anders Sorman-Nilsson to move the brain from the menial and mundane, to the creative and innovative. Therefore, continue to design 'authentic assessments' which are relevant to students'' future careers - see this blog for details.Therefore, set personalised, complex and topical assessment tasks. Shared many examples, 

The key note was followed on by a series of 5 minute presentations on Gen AI from both academic staff and students.

Industry Practices, Processes and Techniques adopted in Education - book overview

 This book edited by K. MacCallum and D. Parsons and published in 2022 by Springer Link, brings some thoughtful concepts into the educational sphere.

The book has 18 chapters, categorised into 5 secsions. 

The first section, with three chapters, covers broad themes from industry in education

An introduction by the editors, opens the book with discussion around 'from the workplace to the classroom: how ideas from industry can inspire new kinds of learning'. The overall approach of the book, is to look at industry practices, especially from the IT and design areas, and how these may inform various aspects of school and tertiary education.

Then the second chapter 'can teaching the future of work make the future of work less uncertain?' is written by T. Butlser, M. Rorich, H. Sparks and M. Wadasinghe. Here, one of the rationales for the book is presented as education and workforce participation are interlinked. The rapid shifts through technological advances, places the onus on education to be better aligned to how the world of work is enacted.

Chapter 3 discusses 'from industry to academia: case studies of innovative practices in a digital context' with L. Antonczak, M. Neukam and S. Bolinger. Draws on case studies in France which highlight 'learning by doing', project-based learning and the development and support of heutagogy through mixed modes of learning. The advantages and challenges of each are derived from the cases to inform better development of digital teaching and learning.

The second section focuses on bridging industry approaches into the academy.

First up with G. J. Smolski and F. S. A. Brendolan on 'hybrid project management in post-secondary research and education'. The study looks into the introduction of a Gaming community of practice (CoP) into university teaching and learning. The CoP undertook the adoption and utilisation of Game development e.g. Agile etc, lean thinking, etc. and the chapter evaluates ths CoPs effectiveness.

Then a chapter on 'a systems engineering approach to blended learning design' by A. Mckay, D. B. Trowsdale, S. A. Carrie, G. Duff and C. E. Goodburn. Another example of applying industry models, in this case systems engineering to curriculum and learning design.

The last chapter in this section is by Y. Hoggarth on ' ambidextrous approaches to postgraduate programme development in higher education'. The development of post-graduate programmes is aided by the use of organisational ambidexterity which applies the work of March's concepts of exploitation and exploration. 

Section 3 centres around education and industry working together. The three chapters, describe ways in which industry standard operating processes, are incorporated into higher education curricula. 

L.Griffin, B. O'Farrell, C. Dunphy, P. Windle and E. de Lestar contribute on 'the agile semester, how we used agile as an engagement mechanism'.

The T. Cochrane and D. Sinfield present 'STUDIO602: A model for designing real world collaborations between higher education and industry'

Followed on by L. Major, A; Twiner and R. Wegerif with a chpater on 'simulated internships in schools: engaging learning with the world of work to promote collaborative creativity,'

The last chapter in this section is by S. McCotter on 'bringing the human resource management experience to the letcure hall through dramatic arts'.

Two chapters in the section on Agile learning in the school classroom are presented in this section. 

W. Wijnands and K. Fritsch with 'experience the 'flows' with eduScrum: about the why, how, and what of the empowerment of students and teachers.

Then N.Cosgrove, T. Cosgrove, S. Graham and P. Magnuson on 'agile in the Alps: stories of agile classroom for teaching and learning to administration.

The next section covers bridging experiences from the creative industries into teaching and learning

Begins with M.S. Howarth and A. Baslei on 'production of the 70:20:10 webinar.

Then M.Thorley contributes on 'developing music production expertise through virtual collaboration.

S. Mann, R. Mitchell, P. Eden-Mann, D. Hursthouse, M. Keretai, R. O'Brien and P. Osbourne present on 'educational design fictions: imagining learning futures'. Six educational design fictions are presented and the chapter then undertakes a discursive process to reflect on the processes and how these may inform and promote further discussion on the future of education.

The last three chapters revolve around industry-focused software engineering in the classroom

V.H. Grisales-Palacio, U/ Garcia-Zaragoza and H. Forero-Correa write on 'connecting industry and the academy through cyber-physical systems for disruptive education in machine automation.

The next chapter is by P. Kamthan on 'a framework for analysing and comparing software projects in academia and industry'.

The last chapter covers 'FDD, Crystal, DSDM- an educational perspective by V. Hurbungs and S. D. Nagowah.

In all, the book seeks to investigate how industry practices, may be used, not only in a vocational approach to replicate industry practices in the related disciplines, but how industry practices may be applied across diverse aspects of education to improve administrative tasks and processes, develop and meet strategical objectives, and contribute to teaching and learning from school to higher education. 

AI and education

Ai is still the flavour of the month. There is a plethora of sites on the topic. For example, this one, summarising 6 ways to leverage Gen AI in education which although written in April, is already dated in the tools/platforms presented. Another, written in July, lists 43 examples of AI in education and provides several good resources with examples.

 A working paper, published in August, by Hamilton, William and Hattie (2023), discusses the future of AI in education. The paper posits several future scenarios based on a premise that AI will be ascendant and be able to replace humans in many cognitive activities. They postulate 4 scenarios whereby we ban AI now, work side by side with AI, upgrade our brains using brain-computer interfaces, or provide universal basic income to a populace, largely 'retired'. Each has implications for education with the authors suggesting that accept for the first option, all the other three lead to a reduction in humankind's motivation to be educated! 

An insights report from the US of A provides a less intimidating prediction, taking the perspective of AI as business as usual and making recommendations around trust, equity, fairness and the adoption of guidelines and guardrails. 

My Scholar Alerts for 'artificial intelligence in education' generates around a dozen articles every 2-3 days. So this topic is still very much up front for many. The project we have started in the second semester (June) to study the planning, development and implementation of AI supported learning activities across 6 programmes is starting to reveal the baseline literacies required to be able to work with AI tools. AI literacy is an important foundation before learners are able to embark on using AI in a fruitful manner to inform their learning. As AI tools require good academic literacies as well, we are working with programmes from level 4 (Certificates) to level 7 (degree). It has been interesting observing learners get to grips with the technology, with some quite hesitant and others keen to get stuck in. We start collating data from observations and initial surveys next month, followed by summative focus groups in November. The project has been good learning for everyone involved, including the ethics behind how AI is introduced to learners and the important ethical issues with regards to using AI that have to discussed with learners. 

Workskills data and insights - Aotearoa NZ

 The Tertiary Educaiton Commissiont (TEC) announces the launch of a common platform for sharing Ohu Mahi (Work Development Councils (WDCs) date.

Te Mata Raraunga has been created by the Workforce development councils (WDCs) to collect, integrate and organise vocational education and workforce data on a central platform. Data from each of the WDCs is collated. Trends and analysis across the industries each WDC represents on workforce demographics and regional distribution and information on learners is represented. WDC plans, information on their council and a workforce information platform for some WDCs plus access to various resources are featured. The site is thus a 'one-stop' shop for information on each WDC, their strategic direction over the short term and news. 

CEDEFOP report - future of VET

The European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training's latest report focuses on the future of vocational education and training in Europe.  A 'stock-take' is undertaken across Europe to identify trends and recommend future research to inform VET.

The report summarises the macro processed influencing VET. These include institutional, curricula, and assessment trends and the need to include adult VET into the mix, given the rapid changes wrought on occupations, work and jobs by digital, social and economic shifts. 

In general, there are 'pendulum effect in VET' creating 'return to basics' exampled by assessments moving towards greater standardisation whilst maintaining the need for authentic assessments which reflect the true skills required to perform job tasks; increasing institutional diversification, autonomy and expansion to meet the growing range of industry needs; the recognition that general knowledge, and skills require focus (rather than specialised occupational skills); the growing need for all individuals to continue professional development beyond initial school/formal tertiary/VET education; and the tensions inherent in diversifying rapidly but needing to ensure 'convergence' towards the main goal of VET. 

Future research proposed for VET include improving the gathering of data to create a research-base for VET institutions; encouragement to undertake the development of methods and contents to undertake research on VET curricula; VET pedagogy; and the need to adopt transdisciplinary approaches to researching VET.

There are several important lessons which Te Pūkenga could draw on to build the evidence base for Aotearoa VET and to inform the institution as it moves forward beyond the current restructure of its organisational structure. What we now need is to ensure on-going commitment to resourcing a Centre for VET research to undertake strategic baseline work and to support the scholarship of ako (teaching and learning) across the institute. 

Bill Gates podcast (Unconfuse) with Sal Khan on the integration of AI into Khan Academy

 A half-hour episode (11th August 2023) of Unconfuse with Bill Gates who speaks to Sal Khan on the integration of AI into Khan Academy as Khanmigo.

Discussed origin of Khan Academy and summarised how Khan Academy is now used in schools to provide for learning. Teachers assist with initial working through, focus on sorting out pinch points and supporting the reflective learning process.

Also discussed the rapid improvement of Gen AI with its possibilities for supporting education and how Sal worked through to realise its application. Promoted the use of AI to further support individualised / personalised learning. 

Also presented the challenges, cost, inaccuracies etc. and the work undertaken in the development of Khanmigo. This has 'parameters' to make it safer for use in schools along with reflecting on how to best use it to encourage learner engagement and deeper learning. Khanmigo is able to work with individuals, and groups (to increase social constructivism). Allows for teacher directed learning activities along with the learning analytics to understand learner progress. Khanmigo is therefore a teacher assistant in a classroom, the teacher being a 'conductor' and learners working to their own learning journey. 

AI improves feedback more thoroughly to improve writing for learners. However, learners will need feedback literacy to leverage off AI capabilities. 

Good to listen to the human dimension from leading thinkers in IT and hear how both consider the merits, challenges and possibilities of AI and its contributions towards personalised education for all. 

Using AI to support research - Dr Fiona Beals

 Notes from a lunch time presentation by Dr. Fiona Beals (Principal Lead on teaching, innovation and research at - Weltec/Whitireia/Te Pūkenga) on Research & AI: When your friend is your foe.

Welcome from Dr. Lee Smith who looks after the section. 

Presentation began with a overview of the landscape right now. There are a whole raft of resources. What you get from AI, is determined but what data it draws on. Prompts are very important, an open prompt does not usually yield useful outputs. Referencing of AI is fraught as it is not possible to go back to the AI to get the same output - using AI is more like an communication. There have been articles written that names AI as an author but this is not really legal as AI is not a person and unable to take responsibility for their share of the work. It works on a predictive algorithm and cannot predict the unpredictable. Predicated on data and critical literacy on the part of the user.

Moved on to do a show and tell with some of the AI tools which are usable for research. Moved from the ones which she has found to not be relevant/applicable, to the one she now uses most.

1) Perplexity - based on ChatGPT. Described as a search engine on steroids. It generates summary and provides a range of 'references'. Note that with ChatGPT, only mines data before 2021, so not always up to date. Triangulation takes time and feels the output is not as good as what is produced by scholarly databases.

2) Paperbrain - currently does not work. and an example of the rapid flux in the landscape with tools coming up and disappearing.

3) PaperDigest - has the functions to do lit review or be a text rewriter. In the text rewriter, the functions include wikify & justify, paraphase, quesionly and summarise. The lit review searches for papers and provides a summary. Only finds literature that is accessible on the internet, not those behind paywall. Therefore, limited lit review rather than comprehensive.

4) elicit - this is the one she recommends to be useful. Demonstrated how she uses this to overview a topic. Ability to collect and overview many articles quickly. Scholarly database will still yield more reliable results. 

There are Ai tools that will allow up of pdf articles but need to be careful with regards to copyright as once the pdf is uploaded, the database will have access.

5) Litmaps - able to pick up from your ORCID account, your work and trace the whakapapa of your or a piece of work. Provides a visual representation of how various papers are related and bring up patterns of themes.

Demonstrated how ChatGPT could be used to help modify an existing spreadsheet to change its function for purposes of quantitative analysis. Prompt engineering is a key, along with existing knowledge of concepts. Without that, it is difficult to evaluate/ triangulate / or verify the AI generated outputs for accuracy. 

Demonstrated how to use BingChat. Firstly uploaded paper/book via EBcoHost database search and ask BingChat to summarise the pdf/page, or as questions of the content and use it to help work out overall gist of the article. Might not work if database has block in it to prevent articles being gleaned. 

Concluded with caveats including the ethical aspects. Important NOT to enter own personal data or to ask it to do data analysis with it! Also remember the implicit biases etc. that are present in the data sources. 

Good session to see how others use AI tools to support research, especially these initial efforts to test and understand how to use these tools to help our work. 

Practical AI for instructors and students - A Wharton interactive crash course

 This series of five videos, from the Wharton School, provides good overviews of integrating AI into education. Each video is around 11 minutes. The contexts are for higher and compulsory education. 

The first video introduces the important concepts of AI. The second covers Gen AI and large language models.

The next three videos provide demonstrations, examples and discussion on prompt engineering, how to use AI as a teacher, and how AI can be used as a personal tutor by students. All emphasise the importance of prompt engineering which in turn relies on learners' foundational literacies and subject conceptual knowledge to be able to evaluate AI outputs and then work out the correct prompts to use, to improve the relevance and quality of outputs. The ability of 'personalised tutors' utilising AI will need to be examined with respect to the academic and foundational literacies required to access the power of AI to support personalised learning environments (PLEs). 

The two presenters Associate Professor Ethan Mollick (faculty director) and Dr. Lilach Mollick (Director of Pedagogy) provide quick overviews and encourage teachers to draw on their experience to make the most that Gen AI offers. 

Two recent papers summarise the work undertaken which are applied in the videos:

Mollick, Ethan R. and Mollick, Lilach, Using AI to Implement Effective Teaching Strategies in Classrooms: Five Strategies, Including Prompts (March 17, 2023 http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4391243 

Mollick, Ethan R. and Mollick, Lilach, Assigning AI: Seven Approaches for Students, with Prompts (June 12, 2023 http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4475995

Eportfolios and AI tools: webinar notes

 Attended the Eportfolio workshop - how to get started with AI tools for portfolios. The session was delivered both online and f2f (La Trobe- Melbourne) and organised by ePortfolios Australia and ePortfolios Ireland. 

The session was presented by Dr. Megan Mize who is Director of ePortfolios and Digital Initiatives in the Digital Initiatives Success Centre at Old Dominion University. 

Alison Miller welcomes everyone and acknowledges Country and the various organisations who have contributed towards this webinar. Helen Chen introduces AAEEBL - Association for authenic, experiential and evidence-based learning. Megan begins with overviewing the AI tools that are already part of eportfolio practice. Slide deck of presentations are found at google docs. 

AI's current role could be to support grammar/syntax, accessibility, colour design and content generation. All of these have been available even before advent of ChatGPT. Introduces ideas of how to leverage Gen AI for faculty to provide more individualised support to learners. Proposed the Riff chatbot as a tool which has potential (as discussed with Leticia Britos Cavagnaro).

Riff chatbot can be useful to help learners how to practice reflection. A demo /try out of Riff chatbot followed for participants to evaluate the tool. The chatbot provides some good prompts on statements which were presented to it - a bit similar to 'ask watson' it repeats back what you contribute but pushes the user to 'dig deeper'. Riff chatbot has option of linking with Moodle. Check this blog for using chatbot to support reflective activity and up-coming book by Cavagnaro.

Then provided an opportunity to try another chatbot - Poe chat. Difficulties getting in through institutional and gmail :( (but did arrive in my institutional after about 10 minutes). Demo undertaken to show capabilities of the chatbot. Prompt engineering is important. Tried the 'colour my site' chat which was set up to provide more targeted information to users. Demonstrated how to set up the chatbot to undertake more targeted responses. An authentic activity not only for teachers but also across many occupations. For example, setting up a bot for a business to answer client enquiries etc. Testing the bot is important to see how it responses to a range of inputs. 

Then provided opportunity to 'build a bot' on Poe. Straight-forward process. Also accessible as IOS or Android app. Poe uses ChatGPT and Claude, so not sure how different the outputs are to just using ChatGPT. Claude has a better privacy policy when compared to many other Gen AI tools. 

Discussed the challenges and the need to test extensively, ensure learners triangulate the outputs, and be aware that 'input = output' holds, and the privacy and ethical issues around using the chatbots. Possibilities for learner driven personalised learning are many. 

Then discussed the ethical concerns with regards to AI and eportfolios, summarised in this blog. Q & A followed with most focusing on practicalities and logistics of using chatbots to support personalised learning.

A good session, providing good examples of how to better use AI to support learning, especially for reflective learning. 

A grammar of the visual - website of the work of Kalantzis and Cope

 As AI advances towards being able to provision outputs across text and images, it is important to better understand, the principles underlying human literacy. Not only text based literacies, but the range of multiliteracies which contribute to daily living.

Kalantzis and Cope's website summarise the precepts attained through several decades of work on literacies. Their interest has always been across the range of literacies rather than solely on text-based literacies. Knowledge learning consists of experiencing, conceptualisation, analysing and applying, 

The site is a good resource to the breathe of work undertaken towards better understanding the complexities of how we learn. 

New digital work: Digital sovereignty in the workplace - book overview

New Digital work: Digital sovereignty at the workplace- Open access book published 2023 by Springer and edited by A. Shajek and E. A. Hartmann

There are 15 chapters in the book along with introductory and closing chapters by the editors.

The book covers some of the perceived impacts of AI and robotics on work along with other implications. There are case studies from Europe, South Africa, Australia, East Asia, China and Mexico.

Topics range across not only AI and robotics, but also ‘smart’ production systems, human-machine interactions, designing and capability building for digital work and neural networks.

Of note the following chapter:

-          AI and assistance system for TVET – opportunities and risks https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-26490-0_12

By L. Windelband, which is the entry into the book as the chapter came up on my Scholar Alerts a few weeks back.

Discusses the man-machine-interface (M-M-I) and how these could be – tools /assistance scenario; automation scenario (with limited input from workers and devaluation of qualifications), and the hybrid scenario where by there are new forms of monitoring and control of tasks, leading to new requirements for skilled workers.

The challenges these 3 scenarios represent for TVET are discussed. Figure 1 summarises a framework to think how technologies, impact, use of digital and the process related actions, interfaces with the digital networked world of work. Presents the challenges and how AI for example may be used as information assistants, assistant systems or for learning assistance. Then the opportunities and risks are presented. 

A book providing up-to-date discussions on the impact of the digital revolution on work, and in turn education. The importance of understanding and working with 'intelligent' agents cannot be under-estimated. Digital literacy/ AI literacy needs to recognise the complexities and issues as more intimate interfaces are required between humans and machines.

AI in Learning: Designing for the future - some relevant chapters

 AI in learning: Designing for the future is an open access book published by Springer. The editors are and international group of scholars with H. Niemi (Finland), R. D. Pea (U. S. of A) and Y. Lu (China). The book was published at the beginning of 2022, thus the concepts, frameworks etc. proposed are 'pre-Chat-GPT'. However, the premises are sound, based on the large corpus of existing research around AI. However, it is important to read the chapters in the book, with the proviso that things have since moved on somewhat.

After the introductory chapter and a last chapter by the editors, the book has 18 chapters, organised into 4 parts. They are:

- AI expanding learning and well-being throughout the life

- AI games and simulations

- AI technologies for education and intelligent tutoring systems

- AI and ethical challenge in new learning environments. 

There are several chapters of relevance to my present projects/work.

The first chapter on "AI innovations for multimodal learning, interfaces and analytics' by M. Worsley was the route into the rest of the book, having turned up in one of my searches for 'AI in vocational education'. The chapter brings up opportunities for using AI to support project-based, inquiry-driven and problem-solving approaches to learning. Examples are provided of technologies which can be used by learners across modalities to showcase their learning; tools (audio/video) offering insights into how group work is enacted; and guides as to how learning analytics from these multimodal platforms can usefully inform teaching and learning research. 

The chapters in section 3 - education and intelligent tutoring systems - offers concrete ways to usefully deploy AI for personalised learning. The chapters include one on 'training hard skills' by T. Korhonen, T. Lindquist, J. Laine and K. Hakkarainen. 

The chapters in section 4 - AI and ethics - are all useful as they inform on various perspectives with regards to AI ethics.AI augments learning but can also be used as a surveillance tool. The tensions between assistive learning and 'big brother' needs to be balanced with social and cultural norms shaping the way AI is deployed. Some social cultures may find AI surveillance to be a normal course of life but others will find surveillance to be invasive of personal privacy. Ethical considerations are therefore context dependent. What is taken as the norm in one country, is considered challenging in others. 

The last chapter by the editors 'reflections on the contributions and future scenarios in AI-based learning' - summarises the themes introduced and discussed through the book.

As the book is open access, it is a good resource for anyone interested in how AI may enhance education but with the caveat that there are also many issues with regards to how AI is introduced and utilised. The potentialities for personalised learning, drawing from analytics and AI algorithm driven interventions are emergent technologies, with much promise. Ethical issues become crucial in ensuring AI is used as a tool for equitable access to education, and not as a surveillance instrument by the state. 

Scoop - collection of AI related articles

 Here is a Scoop site, curated by Peter Mellow. It archives various blogs / magazine articles etc. on the implications, challenges etc. of AI on education - mostly higher education and the formal school sector.

With the plethora of media on AI at the moment, it is handy to have access to a range of perspectives. Peter works in the health sector as a Director of learning and teaching and learning design. Therefore, his interest are partly vocational but slanted towards health higher education. 

Something to dip into to keep up with how AI impacts education and how various sectors deal with the challenges.

innovating pedagogy 2023 report

 This year's Innovating Pedagogy report provides some good overviews of emergent pedagogies. The report is compiled yearly by the Open University in the UK, this year, also with contributions from the University of Cape Town. The project's home page provides links to previous reports, going back a decade plus to 2012. 

Of note, is that Generative AI is the first pedagogy discussed. Gen AI is also mentioned in the last pedagogy - entangled pedagogies of learning spaces - with some connections to the rhizomic nature of learning as people tap into a range of resources and viewpoints availed through the internet. Of note to vocational learning also is the summary of thoughts and concepts on multimodal pedagogy, although it focuses on communications across many modes, rather than the learning of multimodal skills.

A good overview providing discussion as AI impacts across all educational sectors. 

The homework apocalyse - article recommending how to work around AI in education

 There have been many blogs, webposts, journal articles etc. on the challenges wrought by the advent of generative AI on education.

Here is a blog written by Professor Ethan Mollick on the implications of AI on education with pragmatic ways to leverage off it to help enhance learning, rather than to view generative AI as a threat.

Suggestions include how to work around the use of essays, readings (i.e. to read and summarise), and set problems. The main advise is to not try to hold on to the tried and tested approaches, but to use the opportunity to update and accommodate the challenges AI brings. 

How education works: Teaching, Technology and Technique - book overview

 This book by Professor Jon Dron - How education works - teaching, technology and technique - is available for download for the time being and then opened for purchase as an e or print book.

The book is not too long (not quite 300 pages), consisting of  preamble (2 chapters), 3 parts (the rest of the 8 chapters) and an epilogue. Each chapter, lays out the argument, moves through the narrative and provides connections from one chapter to the next..

The book is written for the wider educational practitioner and researcher audience, with examples drawn from the school and higher education sectors.

Firstly, in the first chapters, he lays out the premises of learners' self-direction and how, when one is motivated to learn (mostly intrinsically), it does not matter how the learning transpires and what mode of delivery is used. In the long run, learners will learn, if they want to!

The 'role' of technology is discussed in chapter 3 and extended in chapter 4 with the call to view the deployment of technology, in a holistic manner. Technology is not a solution but a means, which works for many but perhaps not for all.

Chapter 5 then puts forward the premise that it is our interaction with technology, not the technology itself, which is the key to understanding how technology can be usefully used to support, enhance learning - not only for content, but for constructivist learning to occur. Technology is both a conduit and assistant, not just for access of content. He posits that the application of technology could be 'soft' (flexible, distributed, complex etc.) or 'hard' (reliable, regular, structured etc.)

From chapters 6 to 8, the connections between how learning occurs, and the affordances from technology are discussed. Firstly, that learning is distributed and this allows technologies to provision access to this web or network of learning (Chapter 6). Chapter 7 undertakes an overview of the educational theories - objective, subjective and complex - and provides some connections to the general thrust of the book, that learning is co-participative. The in chapter 8, the aspirations and direction of co-participation are discussed and pondered.

The last two chapters, performs the synthesis between the first section on technologies, and the section on learning theories. Using a series of 'case studies' from his own experiences and introduced through the previous chapters, he details the challenges inherent in through reflection and why the cases have been important in his development of a better understanding of how education happens. Chapter 9 provides the narratives and chapter 10 the discursive sections. Chapter 10 revisits the 'statements' or 'myths' he wanted to explore, dispel, support etc. bringing the argument anchoring the book, to a sort of a conclusion.

The epilogue, closes the book with encouragement for readers, to think through more clearly, what education means and how education had occurred for them. 

A thought provoking book. Clearly written with good use of examples most teachers will be able to relate to, regardless of the context they teach in. As per the quote at the beginning of the book, it is not what we do, but how we do it, that gets results. Teaching is and always will be more than making sure learners tick off a series of learning outcomes, pass assessments, or attain high grades. It is about understanding what motivates learners and provisioning the tools that will help each learner, reach their potential as human beings. 

Sentience – the invention of consciousness

Wet weekend allowed for a read of the most recent book written by Nicholas Humphrey, Sentience - published 2022. In doing, I am re-igniting my readings on consciousness in light of all the claims around Artificial Intelligence. Firstly, I reviewed the books I had read on the topic in the past. The summaries on this blog include the following:: 

- Soul dust -  arguing for the existence of a soul, also by Nicholas Humphrey.

- A day in the life of the brain - what is consciousness made up of?

- The secret life of the mind - on the origins and composition of thought, identity and consciousness.

- The problem of the soul - explores the religious and neuroscience perspectives on the existence of a soul.

- Touching a nerve: the self as brain - neuroscience and its contribution to understanding how we think, be and are. 

I had a look in the local library and came across Nicholas Humphrey’s latest book. Here are notes taken as I worked through the many concepts introduced and discussed through the book.

The book has 24 short chapters, each covering or rationalising a topic or concept.

The first 1/3 of the book, provides a overview of Humphrey's initial work on understanding sensing. Hindsight provides connections with the work undertaking through the 1960s and 1970s and how various studies on how sight and other senses work, to present understandings of what makes sentience.

The overall argument is that sentience requires not only the ability to sense, but to sense with qualia. That is, to be able to appreciate the nuances of experiences being sensed, to enjoy or articulate (externally and internally) these, and to draw on these individualised reactions, to not only provide the grist for decision making etc. but also to attain joy, satisfaction, etc. He posits that vertebrates have sentience, but it is on a continuum with some birds/mammals possessing 'higher' sensate abilities and also the neural capabilities to experience qualia. Invertebrates, exampled by octupi, may have high levels of sensing and make autonomous decisions, but do not view the world in sufficient spectrum to display sentienness. 

The above takes up most of the rest of the book as each contribution to sentience is defined, explored, discussed and evaluated. In all, we could say that at this moment in time, AI may have 'sensing' but not sentience as it only draws from data to make decisions on what to output, but does not have the ability (as yet) to appreciate the glory or implications of what it pronounces. 

All in, a short read but with profound concepts, explained in clear language with examples most lay people will be able to connect with. Recommended reading for those interested in whether AI is currently sentient and the thresholds it has to meet to exhibit sentience. 

New digital work - book link and first impressions

 A new open access book - New Digital work: Digital sovereignty at the workplace, edited by Alexandra Shajek and Ernst Andreas Hartmann, published by Springer 2023 with international authors across 15 chapters.

Worth browsing and picking up relevant chapters. Topics include AI, neural networks, immersive environments, digital equity, robotics etc.

Sal Khan - How AI could save (not destroy) education

 Another inspirational video from Sal Khan of Khan Academy.

He provides a pathway for all educators to take heed. Content is no longer the focus of education and has not been for many decades. Its the skills required to evaluate and utilise content which are the keys to the future. A future whereby AI is poised to take over 300 million jobs and change the nature of work for billions. The use of AI as a personalised learning tool is one way to democratise education and to provision education for all with access to digital devices and infrastructure. 

AI may not take all jobs - including those which require those which are really creative, those requiring the deployment of complex interpersonal skills and relationships, and jobs that require mobility, dexterity and problem solving abilities (i.e. may craft trades).

Khan academy already provisions opportunities to use it for personalised practice and mastery, especially of STEAM skills at the compulsory / foundational school levels. These fundamental skills of literacy and numeracy along with the conceptual understanding of our the world works, are essential for all to springboard from when working with AI agents. Otherwise, AI generated content becomes uncritically accepted and this will lead to a decline in critical thinking. Thinking is a deliberate and learned act, therefore, practice essential in ensuring that foundational skills are well embedded before relying on AI generated solutions. 

Assessment in the age of AI - NZQA symposium - notes

 The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) convened a symposium on the implications of AI on assessments. The main event held at Te Papa with online attendance by many. The event is also supported by the Ministry of Education, Universities NZ and the NZ Assessment Institute, NZ Council for Educational research, Post Primary Teachers Union, Tertiary Education Union and Network for Learning. 

Notes from the online /streamed sessions follow:

The day begins with mihi whakatua, and introduction. Lee Kershaw Karaitiana MCs along with offering the karakia and welcomes. 

DrSimon McCallum, Senior Lecturer in Software Engineering, Victoria University of Wellington opens with the first keynote on ‘the dawn of AI’. Begins with his pepeha (Māori introduction). Has been teaching game programming since 1999 and every year, there is something new and the students coming in change each year. Went through what is Generative AI - what are are Large Language Models (LLMs) which is the training of a machine to translate. Much of language relies on our experiences. Explained how word vectors work to help machines understand words and how these contribute to ChatGPT unravelling the nuances of language. Then explained how ChatGPT works to answer the prompts it is given and the importance of prompt engineering. Provided the principles of prompt engineering including how ChatGPT learns as the process of prompting continues. Currently, other AI platforms - ChatGPT 4 etc. has added guardrails and other 'agent-based' systems to try to provide more authentic outputs. Explained the many processing methods used to evaluate what the output will be. 4 is much more advanced and able to provide less stilted outputs, and the scholar plug in generates real citations - cost US$20 a month - so there is an equity issue. AutoGPT (cost $20 per complex problem) uses Python to create a plan with the ability to write code to solve the problem. Warning on privacy issues as AutoGPT able to make a plan with access to all the items in your (Google) account! Provided examples for AI image generation - Dall-E 2, stable fusion, Nvidia AI playground etc. Photo generation is now very blurry, given images can be 'enhanced', sometimes without our knowledge (Samsung phones often provide a better version of a photo you take!).

Note - AI understands language but not actual words. Assessments often draw on learners use of language as a way to assess critical thinking etc. However, now AI able to do similar, making it a challenge to how we assess students. Observation of groups of low capability students have high use of AI but then do not learn :( High ability students learning AI progress quickly though. Improving understanding is the key, not just using it to replace the work learners have to do. Posits that presently, ChatGPT able to complete assessments at Level 3 but Bard and Bing able to meet Level 7 to 9 in some areas. Argues that all work is now group work. Need to assess learners' contribution to the group :) 

Challenged us to think about how we prepare learners? AI can be used to 'augment' so the combined AI and human effort requires assessment. Suggests assessments as 'motivational' which are agentic, intrinsic, relevant and covert - works with small groups of highly motivated learner. Authentic assessments must connect task/time to assess complex reasoning/thought. How do we roll out a new approach to assessment, especially when the future in the world of AI is still unknown. Encouragement to use AI as a tutor, supporting personalised learning 24/7 able to translate concepts to different levels, attain customised explanations and form chains of thought. If AI now a co-author, then author statements require being clear as to who had done the work and justification of not using AI now required!! We need to be the 'rider' of AI. Suggests flipped exams (it is the prompts, not the answers), AI to triage the work and rethink of what authentic assessments will look like. Finished with some thoughts on what may happen into the future (pessimistic). Shifting from clever words to caring people, need to be aware of the apathy epidemic (people who no longer have to think!). 

 The keynote is followed by a short presentation by Dr. George Slim, consultant advisor to the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor who speaks on 'a science policy review'. Provided a Aotearoa science perspective on how AI has changed (increased/accelerated) research - biology (DNA, viruses etc etc). Panel being assembled to bring together a report as to how to address the many challenges presented. Resources also being provided to archive contemporary thinking as the technology moves on. Government is just beginning work on implications and response. Do we ban it (Italy), leave it to the market (US of A). NZ Privacy Commission has begun to work on guidelines and resources. Important understand and manage AI. 

 

After morning tea, online presentation  from Dr Lenka Ucnik, Assistant Director Higher Education Integrity Unit, Tertiary EducationQuality and Standards Agency (Australia) provides the Australian context. Provided context and background of TEQAS - does not regulate on vocational education though but for higher education. The key messaging on AI is that it is here to stay. Can be an assistive tool for students (especially for those with disabilities), research and teaching. The main premise is to implement risk analysis management to maintain academic integrity. AI affects academic integrity and there are discipline specific processes. Important to ensure learners/students attain the skills to work with AI (see learner guide). Encouraged participants to think beyond the immediate and evaluate /plan / strategise towards the future. There are opportunites but also important to mitigate risks! and the ongoing work required to ensure the integrity of education. What is the most important objective of education and how can the affordances from AI contribute. 

 

Professor Cath Ellis from the University of New South Wales then presents on ‘the link between cheating and assessment’. Shared an observation from a student, generating a presentation using ChatGPT and attaining a good mark. Currently, learning is assessed with an artefact/performance - a proxy. Learning is embodied :) Assessments pitched at being 'just good enough'. At the moment, ChatGPT moved from producing work which as from just enough to good. What needs to be done and who does it now?  'Cheating is contextual and socially constructed' - example of ebook for commuting (good) but in the Tour D France (bad). There is a plethora of sites which allow support essay writing. 

We still need to ensure the authenticity of assessments, whose work is it when AI is available. We need to focus on finding evidence that learning has occurred, not why cheating has occurred. Do we need to assess some things many times?? Education's role is really about making sure our learners are able to weed out 'hallucinations' generated by AI. Conceptual frameworks on academic integrity and assessment security needs to be discussed. We need to champion those learners who are able to work and willing; and not criminalise students who are unable or unwilling. Bulk of energy needs to be in championing, not so much in criminalising. Encourage to focus on metacognitive rather than with content. Call for placing importance on critical AI studies. Check critical AI. 

 

Following on is ProfessorMargaret Bearman, Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning, Deakin University (Australia) who presents on ‘generative AI – the issues right here, right now’. Presented on the short term implications and moved on to future. Defined assessments as both graded and non-graded, not necessarily marked by teachers. Assessments should not only assure learning but also promote learning. Educational institutions response to AI can be ignore, ban, invigilate, embrace, design around or rethink. Uncertainties around Ai include legal, ethical, and access. 

 Design around is probably the best option for the moment. Shared possibilities through ways of making knowledge requirements more specific - knowing your students, specifically requiring the assessment task to reference something that happened in class, designing more authentic assessments. Design to cheat proof assessments. Invigilation is costly, stressful, tests capabilities unrelated to task, narrow band capabilities and cheating still goes on. Rethinking invigilation may be one option - move towards oral, assessment of learning outcomes across tasks, invigilate only the common sorts of knowledge/skills. Need to rethink the curriculum to account for AI. 

Then Associate Professor Jason Stephens from the University of Auckland on 'achieving academic integrity in academia: the aspirations and its obstacles'. Covered what does it mean to achieve with integrity and why it is important, the obstacles to achieving integrity. Being honest is not (always) easy! students need help (somethings a lot) to achieve with integrity. Educators are obligated to design environments that mitigate dishonesty. Defined achievement of integrity as being hones and having strong moral principles and the state of being whole and not divided. Shared model of moral functioning in academia. Survey across 7 institutions in 2022 (before ChatGPT) reveals 15.1% of students use AI. Obstacles to achieving integrity include thinking as being costly, modern society moves fast and has high expectations, a culture of cheating is sometimes seen to be supported, through contagion effects and 'the power of the situation'. Harmful for well-being when students afforded opportunities for cheat, so important to maintain academic integrity. 

A local school based perspective is presented by Claire Amos, Principal | Tumuaki, Albany Senior High School and Kit Willett from Selwyn College. Claire briefly went through context of the school which has a well-established, well-embedded innovative curriculum model - tutorial, specialist subjects and impact projects. Approach to AI is to embrace its potential, rethink assessments. Use AI to reduce workload, support UDL and support learner agency and self-direction. Working through addressing ethical issues, teaching critical thinking and addressing plagiarisms. Shared examples of how teachers used AI - maths to generate practice tasks, photography to look for connotation and denotations in images, create quick worksheets etc. Also shared how students use AI - support design learning approaches and spending time to discuss how to use AI for good and not for cheating but as a coach :) Shared concerns of increase in more additions into a busy curriculum, the compounding of digital equity, and the need to support students to use AI in a critical manner. Summarised reflections - for example, what happens when we do not assess/rank/grade students?

Kit shared that there has been more plagiarism this semester than across the last few years. Students were briefed about the consequences but many still did not take the advise. Kit works in a school with more traditional approaches including using invigilated assessments. Shared challenges a teacher has to undertake to meet NZQA requirements. A more traditional approach! Shared how teachers could use AI to help lower their workload as well. 

 

Panels and forum occur after lunch.

 The first with perspectives on AI, convened by A. P. Jason Stephens,student association representative (four high school ākonga and two university ākonga), Claire Amos and Kit Willett. All acknowledged knowledge of AI, usually comes up more when assessments are handed out. Did not report on conversations with teachers as to how AI should be/or not used. High school students are cognisant of AI capabilities and will use it as a resource but know of others who use it to plagiarise. Student association representatives from higher education wanted better utilisation of AI to support equity in education and fairness with regards to invigilated assessments. Image-based disciplines need to really work on how to assess when there is so much available. AI use in creativity needs to be clarified - is AI augmenting or doing all the work? 

Banning AI will only make 'forbidden fruit' more attractive. People who want to cheat, will do it. Inequities are acerbated as students able to afford AI still advantaged. 

Good points brought up by all the ākonga. They are pragmatic. AI can support learning, however assessments are still a grey area. Interesting discussion ensued around what is learning, the role of technology in supporting learning, and assessment philosophies. Call to look at updating an archaic education and assessment system to reflect the technology affordances and what is the present and future social /work / industry environments. 

The second is the AI forum with the Aotearoa NZ perspective with Gabriela Mazorra de Cos as convenor and Professor Michael Witbrock and Dr. Karatiana Taiuru. Micheal overviewed 'Where are we going with AI?' As a country, we respond well to new developments. Summarised history of AI from 1940s and the current rapid improvement in its usability. Ran through pluses and minuses of AI. automate everything?? to free humans from mundane work. AI may be in the from of a organisational/consolidated form rather than as an individual form. Integration of natural and artificial intelligences with existing and new kinds of organisational intelligences need to be considered. Education will be about how to help learners become the best humans :) 

Karatiana covered 'how do we embed Kaupapa Māori ethics and culture from the outset?' Spoke about the opportunities to turn back effects of colonisation. Digital technologies and now AI confer affordances to support the revitalisation and increase in Te Reo and Mātauranga Māori. Argues all datum has Mātauranga Māori threaded through it, it is a taonga and must be used to empower Māori. AI is no exception. Still much to be done to ensure the integrity and ethics of how Mātauranga Māori is used. Important to plan towards the future to ensure ākonga are educated about Māori ethics. Also proposed the deployment of AI as personal learning assistants/tutors to assist with the shortage of Māori experts, but must be developed in association with Māori. 

Q & A ensued covering future possibilities as we are a small, generally well-educated country, to leverage off AI for the betterment of all. 

Then a provider response panel Associate Professor Jenny Poskitt from Massey University chaired by with Dr. Mark Nichols from the Open Polytechnic / Te Pūkenga, Kit Willett, Dr. Kevin Shedlock Victoria University and Sue Townsend from Le Cordon Bleu,  the Private Training representative. Mark posited that education is a way to treat ignorance and AI may enhance understanding. Both of these must be addressed with assessment. Four techniques, video practice, videoed randomised questions through interactive oral assessments, viva voce and then use of AI tutors. Video is now more commonplace and allow for interpersonal assessments. Interactive oral assessments are useful as one approach.

 Kevin argued that 'grey' aspects of life, where there are no 'correct' answers is something Māori find normal. The head of the fish can set the direction, but the tail and the body must also follow. Therefore, important to be collaborative when working with AI. 

Sue ran through context of Le Cordon Bleu. Impact of AI seems to be similar to schools and universities'. Three main areas, AI will impact on the types of work available; change inevitable for assessment practices and support facilitators to shift; flexibility and equity for learners have access. 

Kit(secondary school context)  reiterated that tamariki need skills going into the future. Spoke on personal growth, curiosity, intentionality and the challenges of assessing these. Rethinking assessments is a key - reducing assessments and ensuring they are more focused. 

Q & A followed. 

The workshop closes with a panel on ‘reflections’ with AP Poskitt and Dr. Grant Kinkum, CE of NZQA. Jenny summed up the day's discussions with the rise of AI and its many implications. Education which engages is truly a great experience. Rethinking, redesigning are required to leverage off AI to address equity, inclusion. Human being requires reciprocity, empathy and relationships. Ethical challenges are posed by Ai and to move forward, dialogue is required to create new ways of doing. 

Grant thanked presenters and participants and encouraged the conversations to continue. A whole of education required to reap the advantages of AI and meet the challenges. Collaborative work between ākonga and kaiako and the system at large required. Summarised the important themes across the day. Learning content, skills etc. less important than ensuring our ākonga attain the cognitive, evaluative and critical thinking to be agile/flexible as AI continues to evolve. The purpose of education is just as important as assessment design. Encouraged ongoing work as we move through into the future. 

Lee closes the symposium with karakia. 

Life long learning - podcast - Singapore's SkillFuture with Dr Gog Soon Joo

This came through Soon Joo Gog's linkedin post. She participated in a podcast from the 100 cases of lifelong learning for the workplace series.

This podcast with Soon Joo, focuses on Singapore's SkillsFuture which represents a case study of a country's strategic response to the many challenges posed by the future of work on citizens. 

 Skillsfuture brings together individual incentives to all Singaporeans and organisations, to enable them to upskill, reskill, or just stay on top of rapid advances in techology. The government funded holistic response includes not only information and incentives but also does the work to maintain skills frameworks through on-going research on skills demands. There is access to the skills and training advisory for individuals and organisations. For individuals, information is organised into early and mid-career initiative to inform and augment current and future skills. 

Future of jobs report 2023 - World Economic forum

 The World Economic Forum released their annual Future of Jobs report. 

The key findings make for interesting reading with no great surprises. The impact on technologies is high. Large corporates involved in the survey, predict 23% of jobs will be caught up in the 'churn' as some jobs become obsolete. However, the effect is for a net positive, i.e. that technologies will create more jobs than those which are lost. However, it is still up to the individual to re-train, move horizontally etc. to ride out the turbulence.

Greatest job growth is driven by technology, digitalisation and sustainability. Declining jobs are also affected by the same drivers and include clerks in data entry, ticketing, postal services, cashiers etc.

There is predicted large-scale growth in education, agriculture, digital commerce in trade. Analytical and creative thinking are now core skills. Also included are the self-efficacy skills - resilience, flexibility, agility, motivation and self-awareness, curiosity and lifelong learning. Dependability and attention to detail have risen into the top 10. Perhaps these reflect the post-pandemic era as people adjust to a new normal of physical engagement with workplaces after several years of 'work from home' arrangements and disruptions caused by illness. 

Given the above, an estimated 44% of work skills will be disrupted in the next five years as increased need for cognitive skills grow. However, core corporate upskilling strategies are not aligned to these needs. Investment in learning and on-the-job training seen to be essential. With almost 1/2 of companies surveyed indicating the need to invest in skills training for their workers.

All in, the effect of AI's prominence and capability, signal the rapid change facing the current workforce. Companies with the means, and capability to advance, reap the immediate and future benefits. 

FLANZ presentation on impact of AI on online, flexible and distance learning

Notes from today's   'AI is here to stay: Its impact on online, flexible, and distance learning', offered by FLANZ (Flexible Learning Association NZ) in partnership with EdTech NZ and as part of TechWeek here in Aotearoa.

Panellist include  Dr. Rebecca Marrone, Dr. Mark McConnell, Shanon O' Connor and Dr. Truman Pham with facilitation from Bettina Schwenger. 

Shanon O'Connor from Tōnui Collab starts things off. Shared experiences as to how to provide equitable access to Māori, especially with those who live in rural/isolated areas and those currently affected due to damage to infrastructure from the Cyclone. AI could be useful in providing personalised learning. At the school level, some are finding AI challenging. However, digital inequity is also an important first step as without hardware, capability/ adequate digital literacies, AI tools are not accessible. Cautioned on the use of AI which, due to its underlying epismological sources, can be biased for non-mainstream cultures. Māori digital sovereignty is an important aspect to keep in mind (see work of Dr. Kariatiana Tainui). 

Dr. Mark McConnell shared reflections from a 'front-line' university teacher. Background with all all University of Auckland exams are now online, with most being open book and submitted online. The immediate challenge is how to work through students using AI and how to find out if students actually has the knowledge and skills to complete the assessment. Found that Chat GPT scored well on first year assessment questions (multiple choice and short answer for legal questions). Borderline for year 2 questions but failed with complex legal issues and concepts. Case studies, legislations etc etc often made up by ChatGPT!! but seems to have improved over time. Responded by putting all questions into ChatGPT, and reworking questions where required. Discussed the challenges with large numbers of students, to detect AI content and how Ai tools do not always provide opportunities for students to learn essential thinking skills. Shared guidelines (as decision made not to ban Chat GPT): use at your own risk, need to verify accuracy of answers, academic integrity and no expectation to use it. Strategies to use to: include using images, integrate ChatGPT into the question to evaluate what has been produced for authenticity, validity etc. 

Dr. Truman Phan from AcademyEX next with discussion on the approach taken with students, to ensure they are attain all aspects of digital, including AI literacies. AI needs to be used with responsibility but also ensure inclusive and equitable for all. Digital divide is very real. As with Shanon's presentation, first steps to ensure digital equity needs to be attained before engagement with AI is possible. 

A recording from Dr. Rebecca Marrone from the University of South Australia followed. Provided an example of an adaptive learning platform, which is also mediated with AI. Learning is personalised or differentiated as they move through the platform. Discussed ethical considerations with regards to learning analytics. Presented on opportunities for both learners and lecturers/teachers. 

Q & A followed. 

Horizon report 2023 - overview

Not too many surprises in the latest Horizon report for teaching and education. 

As per usual, the report begins with horizon scanning of the various social, technological, economic, environmental and political trends. The effects of the pandemic will be a key influence across the coming years. Hence, the rise and integration of digital technologies into work, education and society, have now become mainstream. 

The key technologies and practices distilled include AI-enabled applications for predictive, personal learning. The increasing sophistication and acceptance of generative AI. The blurring of boundaries between learning modalities. The increase in deployment of hyflex and microcredentials. And the increasing need to support students' sense of belonging and connectedness when learning is distributed, delivery is multi-channel, and multimodal.

Speculation on the scenarios for growth, constraint, collapse and transformation is presented. The report predicts growth of digital technologies for teaching and learning, constrained by the effects of climate change, with possible collapse of traditional long campus-based undergraduate education, and the challenges for the transformation of education to incorporate AI, flexible learning and personalised education.

A series of implication essays then provided to encourage discussion on topics including learning spaces, equity and accessibility, digital connectivity, adult learners, innovation in research and learning, faculty challenges, and under-resourced institutions.

All in, summation of where things are at, in a post-pandemic world wrestling with social, economic and political fall-out from the uncertainties of several years of disruption. Changes in education move at glacial speed but the pandemic showed that it is possible to shift rapidly when required. What is needed now is to work out what of the emergency changes could be retained, how to leverage off the improved capabilities of faculty, and reengage students', now used to several years of disruptions and changed delivery. 

International Handbook of Lifelong Learning (3rd edition)

 The Third International Handbook of Lifelong Learning, edited by K, Evans, W-O, Lee and M. Zukas and published by Springer as a 'living reference' contains 63 chapters. The two previous volumes were published in 2001 and 2012 respectively, meaning the series is a good overview of how lifelong learning, adult education and continuing education have evolved across 3 decades.

The chapters cover topical issues including lifelong learning's contribution to helping humans ameliorate the effects of climate change, country reports / perspectives on lifelong learning, research focuses and issues, neuroplasticity and adult learning, migrants and refugees and the importance of lifelong learning in helping them resettle, digital technologies and industry four, importance of indigenous knowledge, and accommodating sexual and gender identities in societal, cultural and lifelong learning contexts.

All in, chapters provide contemporary overviews of issues, challenges and recommendations to support, extend and viewpoint lifelong learning's importance and application.