The 2023 Educational Innovation Symposium at McMaster University will bring together representatives from top global research-intensive universities to discuss the future of higher education, particularly the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and student preparedness for future employment. This was announced by Fernando Carneiro from the Office of the Provost on June 23, 2023.
Simon Buckingham Shum, a professor of Learning Informatics from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), will deliver the keynote speech, expected to stimulate conversations about the opportunities and risks of generative AI in the classroom. Kim Dej, McMaster’s Vice-Provost for Teaching and Learning, emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into teaching plans and preparing students for this technology as they commence their careers.
The symposium, taking place from June 28-30, is part of the Universitas 21 (U21) initiative, a network of 28 global universities committed to research, collaboration, and internationalization. It has been organized by McMaster’s Office of International Affairs with support from the MacPherson Institute.
Bonny Ibhawoh, Vice-Provost for International Affairs, underscored the value of international collaboration for identifying shared challenges, appreciating diverse perspectives, and exploring solutions. The event will feature panels on student assessment, academic integrity, learning analytics, curriculum design, career development, and future employability.
Jenny Dixon, U21 Provost from the University of Auckland, commended McMaster’s leadership in teaching and learning excellence, adding that exploring the challenges and opportunities of AI technology requires a global perspective to understand the implications of new technologies and how best to equip faculty and students in a rapidly evolving environment.
