8 APR 2024 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: - Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org - Kurt Hintz, Managing Director, Fortis Education Consulting - Michael Webb, Director of Technology and Analytics at Jisc - Paul McKean, Director of Further Education and Skills and Training at Jisc Episode 13: Navigating the New Frontiers: AI's Role in Further Education with Jisc Episode Overview: In "Navigating the New Frontiers: AI's Role in Further Education with Jisc," we venture into the transformative realm of AI in education. This episode, featuring insights from Jisc's Paul McKean and Michael Webb, delves into the delicate equilibrium between AI and human intervention, the democratisation of learning through personalised AI tools, and the challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI technologies like ChatGPT. We explore how AI is reshaping educational landscapes, enhancing communication and social skills, and redefining academic integrity. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on AI's burgeoning impact in further education. Key Topics of Discussion: In the latest episode of "Navigating the New Frontiers: AI's Role in Further Education with Jisc," we delve into pivotal discussions surrounding AI's integration into education. Our conversation pivots around several key areas: - The Balancing Act: We examine the crucial balance between AI's capabilities and the invaluable human touch in education. The dialogue opens up on the complexities surrounding formative assessments aided by AI and the ensuing debates on grade inflation, underscoring the necessity for a thoughtful approach to integrating AI in assessments. - Accessibility Challenges: Addressing access disparities, the discussion highlights the importance of ensuring equitable access to AI tools, connectivity, and devices. The freemium models of generative AI tools potentially widen the digital divide, raising concerns about equal opportunities for all learners. - Cognitive Offloading and Assessment Evolution: The conversation explores the shift towards cognitive offloading to AI tools like calculators and how it necessitates a re-evaluation of assessment criteria. This segment contemplates the expectation for students to delve deeper into their subjects, thanks to AI's support. - Empowering Educators and Learners: Finally, we spotlight the transformative potential of AI in democratising education. With examples like the use of visual AI to enhance language skills, the episode illustrates AI's role in catalysing learning and levelling the educational playing field for all, including those with learning difficulties. The AI resources from Jisc are available https://ohttps//nationalcentreforai.jiscinvolve.org/wp/2024/03/07/guiding-your-ai-journey-essential-resources/.

19 FEB 2024 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: - Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org - Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group - Conrad Taylor, Business Learning & Technologies Manager, The City of Wolverhampton College - Dr. Adam Dwight, Lecturer in Teacher Education and Learning Innovator, The City of Wolverhampton College Episode 12: Embracing Digital Transformation: Insights from The City of Wolverhampton College Episode Overview: In this episode, Richard Foster-Fletcher and Kurt Hintz engage in a comprehensive dialogue with Conrad Taylor and Dr. Adam Dwight from City of Wolverhampton College. The discussion illuminates the college's strategic approach to digital transformation, highlighting the innovative integration of AI and technology in teaching and learning processes. The conversation delves into the pivotal roles that Conrad and Adam play in spearheading digital initiatives, shedding light on the transformative impact of technology on student engagement and educational outcomes. Key Topics of Discussion: - The pathway to digital transformation within the education sector, emphasising the initiatives spearheaded by the City of Wolverhampton College. - The dynamic role of technology in reshaping educational experiences, with a focus on personalised learning and digital skill development. - Insights into the leadership strategies that drive successful technology integration in further education settings. Recommendations from the Episode: - Adopting a Forward-Looking Approach: Emphasising the importance of visionary leadership in navigating the complexities of digital transformation in education. - Fostering Collaborative Innovation: Highlighting the significance of collaboration among educators, technologists, and students to maximise the potential of digital tools in enhancing learning. - Empowering Through Digital Literacy: Stressing the necessity of equipping both students and educators with digital competencies to thrive in a technologically advanced educational landscape. This episode serves as an inspiring exploration of the challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation in further education, offering valuable insights for educators, leaders, and policymakers committed to leveraging AI and technology for educational excellence.

5 FEB 2024 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: - Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org - Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group - Ian Pryce CBE, Former CEO of Bedford College Group Episode 11: "AI Innovations and Leadership: The Bedford College Group's Journey"Episode Overview: In this episode, the conversation focuses on the transformative role of AI in further education. Ian Pryce shares his insights from his tenure at Bedford College Group, discussing how AI and digital technologies have been integrated into the curriculum. The discussion, led by Richard Foster-Fletcher and Kurt Hintz, explores the challenges and opportunities of implementing AI in further education. AI Integration at Bedford College Group: Ian Pryce talks about Bedford College's journey in integrating AI into their system, highlighting the use of the Century computerised system to enhance online study. The conversation delves into the impact of this AI tool in supporting both staff and students, and how it has helped to advance personalised learning and improve teacher efficiency. Embracing AI for Future-Proofing Education: The dialogue sheds light on how the Bedford College Group is preparing students for future challenges through AI. It discusses the role of AI in shaping new educational paradigms and the importance of equipping students with relevant digital skills. Challenges and Ethical Considerations: Pryce, Foster-Fletcher, and Hintz discuss the ethical implications and practical challenges of integrating AI in education. They touch on the importance of balancing technology with traditional teaching methods and ensuring equitable access to digital resources. The episode concludes with a focus on the importance of leadership in driving technological change in education. It highlights the need for continuous innovation and adaptability in the face of rapidly evolving AI technologies, ensuring that further education remains relevant and effective in preparing students for the future.

29 JAN 2024 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: - Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org - Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group - Graham Bell, the Director of Digital Education at Cranfield School of Management Episode Title: "Strategies for Executive Education in the Age of AI" Date of Recording: 19th Jan 2024 Episode Introduction: In this insightful episode, we delve into the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education and leadership. Joined by Graham Bell from Cranfield School of Management, we explore how AI is shaping the educational landscape, its implications for leadership, and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. This discussion is essential for educators, leaders, and anyone interested in the intersection of AI, technology, and education. Guest Bio: Graham Bell, the Director of Digital Education at Cranfield School of Management, brings extensive experience in integrating digital technologies in educational settings. With nearly 30 years at Cranfield, Graham has been at the forefront of employing emerging technologies to enhance learning and teaching experiences. His insights into the use of AI in education are particularly relevant in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape. Topic 1: Cranfield University's Unique Approach Discussion on Cranfield's postgraduate-only structure and its focus areas including management, aerospace technologies, and involvement in addressing grand challenges like climate change. Topic 2: AI's Role in Education and Leadership Exploration of how AI is impacting decision-making and learning processes in educational institutions, and the challenges leaders face in adapting to these rapid technological changes. Topic 3: Future Predictions and Horizon Scanning Debate on the difficulties of predicting future tech trends, particularly in AI, and the importance for organizational leaders to stay informed and prepared. Topic 4: AI for Augmentation and Upskilling Discussion on the potential of AI to augment jobs rather than replace them, focusing on how AI can enhance productivity and learning experiences.

22 JAN 2024 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group David W. Sime: CTO and Co-Director of Riiot Digital, Technical Director at Riiot Health Episode Title: "AI and XR at the Forefront: Reshaping Education with David Sime" Date of Recording: 12th Jan 2024 Guest Bio: David Sime brings 23 years of expertise in digital communications technology, focusing on the intersection of Education with AI, VR, AR and IoT. Having planned and supported the digital transformation of numerous UK colleges, David challenges conventional educational models, advocating for the integration of cutting-edge AI technologies to revolutionise learning and teaching methodologies. Show Notes: In an enlightening episode of our podcast, Richard Foster-Fletcher and co-host Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal of Capital City College Group, engage with David Sime in a thought-provoking discussion on the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) in education. David, a seasoned expert in digital communications technology, sheds light on how these emerging technologies are reshaping the landscape of both further and higher education. The episode begins with an exploration of personalized learning through AI. David shares insights into how AI can tailor educational experiences to individual needs, a concept that resonates with Kurt's extensive background in further education. The trio then navigates the concept of the future classroom, visualizing a blended approach that marries physical presence with digital accessibility, a theme particularly relevant to Kurt's expertise in vocational training and technical education. David delves into the necessities for enhancing VR experiences in education, emphasizing the need for advancements in hardware and connectivity. Here, Kurt contributes his perspective on the practical applications and challenges of integrating such technologies in a further education setting. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around market consolidation in education platforms and the potential disruptions caused by international players entering the market. David, Richard, and Kurt examine the implications of this trend on data privacy and security, especially when utilizing AI technologies in educational contexts. In a particularly engaging segment, David discusses the potential of immersive technologies like VR and AR in revolutionizing learning environments. He underscores the need for collaborative efforts among technology providers, educators, and students to ensure successful implementation. Kurt's insights add depth to this conversation, highlighting the dynamics of teacher-student relationships and bridging the digital divide in the context of further education. The episode also touches on lifelong learning and deep learning, areas where Kurt's experiences in leading significant technical developments and innovations in education provide valuable context. Actionable insights from the conversation include: - David Sime's emphasis on developing solutions to further education challenges using technology, advocating for small-scale implementation and evaluation. - Kurt Hintz's focus on the future of classrooms, encouraging FE leaders to embrace technology solutions, and his insights on navigating the complexities of technology implementation in an FE context. - The episode wraps up with reflections on teaching experiences, where both David and Kurt share personal anecdotes and thoughts on student engagement and the evolving role of educators in an AI-driven world. Listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives, as the trio skillfully navigates the intersections of technology, education, and leadership, making this episode a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

11 DEC 2023 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group Paul Levy, Writer, thinker, conversifier, collusion breaker Episode 8: AI and Conscious Leadership in Education Show Notes: In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Richard Foster-Fletcher and Kurt Hintz are joined by writer and technosophy expert Paul Levy to discuss the promises and perils of AI integration in education. Key topics covered include: - The need for ethics and purpose to guide rapid AI advancement, beyond commercial drivers alone. Education cannot solely optimise for efficiency metrics. - Risk of over-reliance on generative AI leading to helpless dependence once systems are unavailable. Critical thinking capability may erode without balanced human-AI collaboration. - Education's aim transcends employable skills to nurturing self-actualisation. Policymakers and corporations cannot impose convenient narratives about automating learning. - Discernment needed on appropriate AI applications - some scenarios warrant replacement, others damage the human condition. Judgment of long-term impacts essential. - Importance of motivation, curiosity, discovery and confidence-building in human development, beyond AI's purview currently. Risk of instrumentalist view stripping joy of learning. - Possibilities for AI to enhance critical thinking assignments rather than replacing essays outright. Designing nudges towards excellence over mediocrity. - Ensuring emerging technologies improve equity, accessibility and inclusion rather than exacerbating divides. Far from inevitable dystopia or utopia, the episode offers balanced perspectives on risks, opportunities and responsible leadership needed to craft an AI-powered education system aligned to student welfare.

4 DEC 2023 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group Debra Gray MBE, Principal and CEO, Hull College Episode 7: Transforming Educational Paradigms for the AI Era Episode Overview: OverviewIn an insightful discussion with Debra Gray, this episode of "AI, Leadership and the Future of FE" dives into Hull College's journey of digital transformation and the broader implications of AI in education. Hosted by Richard Foster-Fletcher and Kurt Hintz, the conversation spans from digital innovation to the cultural shift required in embracing technology in education. Digital Transformation and AI Integration at Hull College: Debra Gray outlines the significant digital transformation at Hull College, detailing the strategies employed to enhance digital infrastructure across departments. This transformation is centred around supporting learners and preparing them for future roles in various industries, including engineering. The conversation also sheds light on how AI tools, such as Chat GPT, are being embraced as productivity tools rather than feared, marking a significant shift in educational approaches. AI Academy and Future-Proofing Students: A key focus of the discussion is the implementation of Hull College's AI Academy, designed for staff training and student programs. Debra illustrates how AI is utilised in various areas like marketing, report writing, and safeguarding, enhancing the overall educational experience. This approach aligns with the broader goal of future-proofing students, equipping them with digital skills that are increasingly sought after in the job market. Cultural Shifts and Efficiency Gains: The episode also explores the necessary cultural change among educators in adapting to digital advancements. Debra discusses her approach to encouraging this shift, emphasising the potential of AI to enhance efficiency. She highlights tools like Teacher Matic, which have revolutionised resource generation, allowing teachers more time to engage with students. Responding to the Evolving Job Market: The discussion with Kurt brings to the forefront the adaptability and responsiveness required in skills development amidst AI advancements. They deliberate on the historical context of job transformations due to industrial revolutions, underscoring the importance of adapting education to meet these evolving demands. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: A recurring theme in the episode is the necessity for increased collaboration and knowledge sharing within the further education sector. The discussion concludes with an emphasis on the importance of maintaining a student-centric approach in education, ensuring alignment with industry needs and fostering entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills among students. This approach, facilitated by AI tools like Chat GPT, is crucial in preparing students for a dynamic job market and fostering collaboration in the education sector. This episode serves as a comprehensive exploration of how digital transformation, spearheaded by forward-thinking leaders like Debra Gray, is reshaping the educational landscape, highlighting the need for flexibility, collaboration, and student-centric strategies in further education.

30 OCT 2023 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group Dr. Sean Mackney, Principal and CEO at Petroc Episode 6: Equal Opportunities in the Digital Age Episode Notes This episode centres on the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping equal opportunities in the education sector, with a special focus on further education and leadership. Discussions range from how AI could democratise access to quality education to its ethical considerations. Objectives: - To discuss AI's potential to level the playing field in education, especially in further education. - To examine the governmental policies around AI's impact on education and lifelong learning. - To explore the ethical considerations of AI in educational settings, particularly in terms of inclusion and analytics. Key Discussions: AI's Potential in Education and Leadership Richard, Sean, and Kurt explore the untapped potential of AI to bring equality in educational opportunities. Sean is optimistic that AI could particularly assist those from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing a supportive structure for learning. AI's Potential in Education: Group-Fetch and Cognitive Offload Sean and Kurt touch upon how AI can aid in personalised learning experiences. Sean brings up the concept of 'group-fetch' and deep relationships, while Kurt discusses 'cognitive offload' to ease complex tasks. AI's Impact on Education and Lifelong Learning Sean brings attention to the governmental view of AI across sectors, urging caution that the pace of technological advancements could outstrip societal adaptation. He advocates for policies like universal income to offset AI's unpredictable disadvantages. Adapting to AI: The Future of Skills and Careers Sean and Kurt delve into the necessity for career adaptability in an AI-driven landscape. Sean speaks about the need for switching careers in the case of automation, exemplified by a bricklayer adapting to drone operation. Colleges as Anchors in the Age of AI The panel addresses the role of colleges as community anchors, contributing to productivity and equal opportunities. Kurt and Sean emphasise the ethical use of data and AI by colleges and call for government frameworks to guide this. GPT-4 Release and Productivity Boost Sean talks about the upcoming release of GPT-4, predicting improvements in productivity. He also hints at the possibility of governmental policy mandating access to mobile hardware and speed. Inclusion, AI, and Ethics Sean and Richard focus on the importance of inclusion and ethical engagement with AI and data. They debate the potential benefits and risks of AI in this context. Ethics and Learning Analytics in Higher Education The discussion turns towards the ethical dimensions of learning analytics. While Sean expresses reservations about how these tools could potentially limit personal growth, Kurt sees them as useful for tracking skills and behaviours. Action Items: - Implement ethical guidelines for AI in educational settings. - Lobby for governmental frameworks that promote the ethical use of AI. - Encourage a balanced approach that values both technological advancements and ethical considerations. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, policymakers, and thought leaders on the importance and complexity of integrating AI into the educational landscape. It stresses the need for a careful, well-considered approach.

23 OCT 2023 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group Scott Hayden, Head of Teaching, Learning and Digital, BCoT Episode 5: Balancing AI and Human Interaction in Education Episode Notes This episode delves into the intricate balance between utilising Artificial Intelligence and maintaining human-centric approaches in education. Our guests discuss the potential benefits and pitfalls of incorporating AI tools into teaching practices, professional development, and assessment. Highlights: - Challenges Amid COVID-19: Kurt Hintz discusses the difficulties education is facing due to the pandemic, including behavioural issues among students. - AI in Professional Development: The conversation explores AI-enabled coaching for educators, focusing on its potential benefits for professional development. - Objectivity vs. Bias in Assessment: Scott Hayden shares his experience with using AI for marking assignments and discusses the objectivity it offers in comparison to human bias. He also talks about the need to rethink assessment methods to include more authentic forms, such as vlogs and blogs. - The Human Factor: Kurt Hintz questions the implications of AI in soft skills development, especially in engineering roles. Both Scott and Kurt emphasise the importance of "being the human in the loop" when using AI tools. - Technology and Human Interaction: The panel discusses the balance needed between technology and human interaction in education. Richard Foster-Fletcher raises concerns about people becoming engrossed in their phones at the expense of personal relationships. - Ethical Considerations: Scott Hayden stresses the importance of ethical safeguards when using AI tools, particularly for younger audiences. The conversation also touches on the addictive nature of some AI coaching tools and the need for balance. - Digital Well-Being: Scott acknowledges the challenge of managing screen time addiction, citing examples from a college module he conducted on digital well-being. Action Items: - Educators and policy makers should consider implementing ethical guidelines for the use of AI in educational settings. - Schools should focus on creating a balanced approach that leverages technology while not compromising on human interaction. - Further discussion is needed to explore the potential future advancements in AI and its impact on education. This enlightening conversation provides a nuanced view of the role of AI in education, urging caution and thoughtful implementation to benefit both educators and students.

16 OCT 2023 · Series: Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and the Future of Further Education With: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org Kurt Hintz, Executive Principal, Capital City College Group Episode 4: AI and Data Privacy in Further Education: The balance of harnessing artificial intelligence while ensuring student data remains secure. Episode Notes: Introduction - Importance of discussing data privacy and AI in the educational context. Data Privacy and Leadership in Education - Changes in data privacy that educational leaders should be cognisant of. - Challenges and benefits of utilising data for educational objectives. - Issues concerning the use of assessment tools and student data. Innovative Uses of AI in Education - Ways in which students are utilising Chat GPT for educational purposes. - Potential risks of personal information being unintentionally disclosed through AI tools. Policy and Governance in AI Implementation - Necessity for public policy documents or white papers focused on AI in education. - Defining objectives, outcomes, and how students should interact with AI. Discussion Points - Educating students on the risks associated with platforms and data privacy; addressing awareness gaps among adults. - Factors such as brand familiarity and network effects in the adoption of technologies in educational settings. - The role of WhatsApp in education and its implications for data privacy. - Balancing the effectiveness of data utilisation with the need for data privacy. - Guidelines for the responsible use of AI in educational settings and safeguarding data integrity. Closing Remarks The conversation around data privacy and AI in education is not just timely but essential. It calls for a thoughtful approach to policy, governance, and education to ensure ethical and effective use of technology.