This year’s AoC conference buzzed with excitement and anticipation surrounding artificial intelligence (AI), leaving no doubt that AI has firmly established itself as a central theme in the world of education. With inspiring keynote speakers like Julia Hobsbawm shedding light on the future of the workplace, and colleges such as Basingstoke College of Technology and Milton Keynes College embracing AI to enhance well-being and reduce the administrative burden on educators, innovative technologies took center stage.
Thirst for knowledge in further education
A palpable thirst for knowledge pervaded among further education (FE) leaders and practitioners, all eager to explore the possibilities and seize the emerging benefits of AI-augmented education. In the aftermath of the pandemic’s disruption, and recognizing the urgent need for digitization across teaching, learning, and employment, it becomes increasingly evident that we are on the cusp of a new era in knowledge acquisition—a digital enlightenment.
Parallels with historical enlightenment
Drawing a parallel with the Enlightenment of the 17th and 18th centuries, which ushered in significant advancements in science, law, governance, and human progress, we envision that the impact of this new digital enlightenment will be equally profound. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, the transformative potential of AI becomes increasingly apparent.
Exponential growth of AI tools
Over the past year, the proliferation of AI tools has been nothing short of exponential. We’ve witnessed substantial global debates led by world leaders concerning the regulation of AI, emphasizing the critical need to ensure AI is safe, transparent, traceable, non-discriminatory, and environmentally responsible.
Addressing the knowledge gap in AI
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that not all colleges and FE providers are at the same level in realizing the potential—and limitations—of AI. To ensure equitable progress, greater understanding of AI’s capabilities and boundaries is required across the board. Experts at Jisc’s National Centre for AI (NCAI) have recognized this need and have taken proactive steps to bridge this knowledge gap.
The role of Jisc’s National Centre for AI (NCAI)
Jisc’s NCAI has crafted an AI primer that undergoes regular updates, serving as a valuable resource to help its members gain a deeper understanding of emerging AI tools and stay abreast of the latest developments in the AI field. Moreover, Jisc offers a series of courses and discussion forums, fostering a dedicated AI community of practice among its members, all aimed at eliminating barriers to progress.
The spark of innovation
The ignition of innovation has commenced, and we are only scratching the surface of AI’s boundless potential. Exciting times lie ahead as emerging technologies continue to reshape the education and work landscape. Looking ahead to the next twelve months, the FE sector must harness its remarkable ability to adapt and evolve teaching, learning, and assessment methodologies.
Jisc: Guiding the digital transformation
As the UK’s designated digital and data body for education and research, Jisc is steadfastly committed to providing unwavering support and guidance. Jisc recognizes the dynamic nature of the education landscape, with AI poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping its future.
The bright future of further education
The enthusiasm and optimism witnessed at the AoC conference leave us with the firm conviction that the future of further education is luminous, provided we embark on this journey collectively. The next chapter in the digital enlightenment of education beckons, promising to revolutionize how we teach and learn, and we eagerly anticipate the transformation it will bring.
In the spirit of embracing this new age of digital enlightenment, further education stands at the threshold of unprecedented growth and progress, driven by the power of AI.
