Building Bridges - Creating Change

Building Bridges - Creating Change:  Engage. Educate. Empower.  

This conference aims to create a space where educators, students, and community leaders can come together authentically and explore vital issues and opportunities shaping our educational landscape. Our purpose is to foster dialogue, provide accessible, practical knowledge, and showcase global perspectives for conference participants through meaningful dialogue from participants around the world.

The theme of this conference revolves around confronting today's prevailing challenges and seizing opportunities to inspire action that benefits everyone. We believe that by focusing on educating, engaging, and empowering, we can motivate individuals to actively improve their communities and homes.

Educate

Education is evolving rapidly, facing disruptions from the lasting impacts of COVID-19 to the looming enrollment cliff reshaping the higher education landscape. This conference will address these opportunities head-on, equipping participants with timely, relevant insights into how the world of education is having the notions of teaching, learning, and societal interaction reshaped by AI. Sessions will explore the practical implications of AI in classrooms, identify potential challenges, and discuss strategies for harnessing AI responsibly to enhance educational outcomes.

Engage

At the heart of education lies a community of passionate educators who shape future generations. We will engage deeply with our panel’s motivations, challenges, and aspirations, facilitating conversations on the evolving nature of education. The panel discussions will address the democratic ideals inherent in teaching, the civic duties educators uphold, and the vital role of community-focused education. Participants will share personal journeys highlighting how institutions like ASU Mid-South contribute significantly to educators' growth and community enrichment.

Empower

Empowerment begins with learning beyond traditional classrooms. We emphasize autonomous and critical learning, recognizing education's dynamic nature. Participants will delve into alternative educational methodologies, global teacher education models, and strategies for fostering independent thinking. Special attention will be dedicated to incorporating AI thoughtfully into education, focusing on enhancing personal connection, critical inquiry, and dynamic learning experiences.

This summit is dedicated to equipping our communities with the knowledge, resources, and innovative tools necessary to thrive in an AI-driven educational future, fostering a culture of continuous, empowered learning.

Agenda:

9:00-9:30 – Welcome and Introductions

9:30-10:30 – Session 1: The Common Thread: Education's Impact

10:45-12:00 – Session 2: Artificial Intelligence in Education (Colin Matsinhe)

12:15 – 1:00 - Session 3: The Global Expansion of AI (Dr. Nakeema Stefflbauer)

1:15-2:30 - Session 4: Open Workshop & AI Demonstration (Colin Matsinhe)

2:30 – 3:00 - Closing Session