AI and the use of cutting-edge technology is reshaping traditional academic practice, opening up new horizons for knowledge dissemination. One such innovation gaining traction is the use of AI to support conference delivery, particularly in academic panels at conferences and symposia. Imagine a scenario where alongside human experts, an AI counterpart actively contributes to discussions, offers insights and engages with attendees. This concept not only enriches the conference experience but prompts the exploration of the potential of AI in scholarly discourse.
The rise of AI panellists
AI technologies have ushered in new possibilities in academia. As conferences foster interdisciplinary dialogue and harness expertise, the inclusion of AI panellists emerges as a step towards helping to achieving these goals. By leveraging AI, the breadth and depth of discussions can be augmented, specialised knowledge domains can be explored and engagement with innovative perspectives is exposed.
Creating your own AI panellist
The process of incorporating AI as a panellist begins with the development of a bespoke AI 'bot' tailored to the conference theme and audience. Utilising user-friendly platforms to create an AI chatbot capable of engaging in meaningful conversations and providing insights on relevant topics is crucial in setting up this opportunity, and defining the expertise and persona of the AI panellist. Curating the content and training the bot to ensure it aligns with the conference objectives is all part of the process.
Ethical considerations
It is crucial to navigate ethical considerations associated with using AI panellists. Transparency, bias mitigation and responsible AI usage are paramount. Disclosure of the AI nature of the panellist to attendees is necessary; implementing measures to mitigate algorithmic bias, and fostering inclusive dialogue that respects diverse perspectives, is essential.
Integration and collaboration
Seamless integration between AI and human panellists is key to maximising the impact. Designing panel formats that facilitate dynamic interactions and complement the strengths of both AI and human participants is possible, and fostering collaboration and mutual respect among panellists can be achieved. It is essential to emphasise the value of diverse expertise and perspectives in advancing knowledge.
User experience
It is also crucial to prioritise the delegate and panellist experience by optimising the interface and interaction flow of the AI panellist. Soliciting feedback from delegates to enhance the AI's performance and usability stimulates growth and development going forward, making use of feedback and reflection for future development.
Learning and adaptation
Engaging in ongoing refinement and expansion of the AI knowledge base is important to stay abreast of emerging trends. Fostering a feedback loop between the AI 'bot' and its human colleagues will facilitate mutual learning and growth.
Embracing AI
The incorporation of AI as a panellist represents a bold exploration of the intersection between technology and scholarly discourse. By embracing this approach and navigating challenges, new dimensions of engagement and knowledge dissemination can be explored as we move further towards a connectivist approach with technology-enhanced learning tools and resources, as part of contemporary academic environments.
Juliette Morgan is a National Teaching Fellow and winner of the Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence. With a clinical background in Allied Health, as a registered Speech and Language Therapist, she now has over 15 years of experience in higher education occupying a range of roles including Senior Lecturer/Clinical Placement Coordinator, Associate Professor (Education), Associate Dean and Dean (Student Experience, Teaching and Learning).
Juliette’s current role is Senior Consultant (Student Success) at Advance HE, and she leads work in the mental health and wellbeing space. Her interests include student success, mental health and wellbeing, student enablement and leadership in higher education.
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Join our Preparing for an AI-Enabled Future Change Impact Programme to understand how we can adapt learning outcomes, teaching practices and assessment methods to meet the needs of an AI-enabled workplace. The programme will also offer participants the opportunity to reflect on key principles for using AI and how they can support students to use it ethically and responsibly. The deadline to join the programme is 22 March 2024.