Reimagining Education with AI: #BacktoSchoolAI24

London, UK – September 20, 2024 – C-Learning hosted a groundbreaking event,#BacktoSchoolAI24, which saw an overwhelming response with educators, technologists, and leaders from around the UK gathering to explore the future of education in the AI era. The event was held in collaboration with Google for Education and attracted participants from all sectors, reinforcing the wide interest in the transformative power of AI in education.

The day began with a warm welcome from Steven Hope, CEO of C-Learning, followed by a series of thought-provoking sessions and discussions on the role of AI in personalising learning and enhancing teaching effectiveness. Notable speakers from Google, including Grace Kelly and Anu Manthri, emphasised the need to harness technology to connect with learners, innovate curriculums, and empower educators.

Grace  and Anu, representatives from Google, shared insights from the “Future of Education” report. Grace discussed the evolving landscape of education and how AI can be used to reimagine learning design, making it more engaging and tailored to individual student needs. Anu emphasised the significance of maintaining human connections in an AI-driven environment and demonstrated practical applications of AI tools, such as Google’s Gemini, to support both educators and learners.

The keynote address was delivered by Ben Whitaker, Chief Innovation Officer and Director, who spoke passionately about the transformative potential of AI in education, outlining how technology can be leveraged to provide personalised learning experiences, reduce teacher workload, and inspire creativity in students. He shared compelling case studies on how AI is already making a significant impact in classrooms worldwide and called for educators to embrace these innovations to better prepare students for the future.

Emma Ferris, Digital Learning Specialist, Elodie Pierre,  Head of Languages and Learning Innovation Lead, and Scott Hayden, Head of Teaching, Learning and Digital, led a panel discussion on “How AI is Transforming Teaching.”

They explored various ways in which AI is being used to reduce administrative burdens, enhance instructional delivery, and support teachers in developing more effective and interactive learning materials.

The event also featured Daren White, Education Technology Specialist, who shared impactful stories of AI in action across different educational settings. He discussed the successful integration of AI tools in schools to support both teachers and students. Felix Manoharan, a Google Cloud Specialist, highlighted the potential of AI to bridge gaps in digital literacy and access to resources, while Jason Thomas, Deputy Head of Digital at the RNN Group, spoke about using AI to create inclusive learning environments that cater to diverse student needs.

Paul Farrell, an expert in AI applications in education, and Martin Wheatley, Deputy Head of Digital Innovation, discussed their experiences in deploying AI to streamline workflows and enhance the productivity of educational staff. They demonstrated how tools like Google’s Gemini can assist in personalising learning and saving time on routine tasks.

Umaira Tariq, a Learning Technologist, and Benjamin Miller, an Assistant Learning Technologist, shared their journey in leveraging AI to enhance teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes. Umaira discussed the benefits of using AI tools to design authentic assessments and to support teachers in adapting their instructional methods, while Benjamin highlighted how AI can be used to personalise student learning experiences and inspire creativity.

This was followed by an interactive “Fireside Chat” featuring  Jill Matterface,  Education Specialist, and Chris Loveday, Vice Principal (Business Services), who explored the broader implications of AI adoption, including ethical considerations, data privacy, and the importance of ongoing professional development.

In the final panel discussion titled “The Impact on All Those Helping Learners of AI in Education,” Charlie Davis, IT Manager, Brianna Lawton, Lead Practitioner for AI Development, and Scott Morgan, Head of Digital Innovation and IT Services, discussed the evolving role of educators in an AI-enhanced learning environment and shared practical strategies for leveraging technology to support student engagement and learning.

The event featured live demonstrations of AI tools like Google’s Gemini, illustrating their application in the classroom to support differentiated learning and creativity. Educators shared inspiring stories of AI in action, highlighting its role in transforming teaching practices and improving student outcomes. For instance, AI tools enabled educators to save over 5 hours per week on administrative tasks, allowing more time for one-on-one student engagement.

“Our Back to School in the AI Era event was a testament to the transformative potential of technology in education. The buzz and positivity in the room were palpable, as educators and experts engaged in thought provoking conversations about the impact of AI on learning. While we acknowledge the power of AI, we must never lose sight of the importance of human intelligence and connection in education. It is through this delicate balance that we can unlock the full potential of AI, empowering learners with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age while nurturing the essential human qualities that make learning truly meaningful.” -Steven Hope, CEO of C-Learning

The day concluded with networking sessions, providing attendees the opportunity to connect and exchange ideas on integrating AI into educational practices effectively. The success of the event underscores the enthusiasm and readiness of the education sector to embrace AI and innovation.

For more information, visit C-Learning’s website or follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #BacktoSchoolAI24.

About C-Learning: C-Learning is a leading provider of educational technology solutions, dedicated to supporting educators and institutions in leveraging technology to enhance teaching and learning experiences. As a Google for Education partner, C-Learning is committed to empowering educators with tools and strategies that drive impactful learning outcomes.