Artificial intelligence is already transforming classrooms across the globe, reshaping how students learn and how educators teach. From personalised learning and reduced workloads to expanding access and equity, AI promises to revolutionise education. But thoughtful conversations are needed: How can we balance its opportunities with its challenges? Can AI enhance critical thinking, promote culturally responsive learning, and bridge the digital divide? And what ethical responsibilities come with its integration into our schools and universities?

We invite you to the first Arts After Dark event of 2025, Empowering education through AI: Revolution or evolution?

The evening will kick off with a dynamic keynote by Dr Paul Wood—Macquarie School of Education alum and Executive Director for Teaching and Learning Support at the NSW Department of Education. Dr Wood will bring his expertise and experience leading the state’s integration of AI into education, including the NSWEduChat initiative.

Returning as host is Professor Peter Greste—foreign correspondent, media freedom advocate, and subject of a recent film about his 400-day ordeal in an Egyptian prison. Professor Greste will guide a thought-provoking discussion on AI’s role in shaping the future of education with Dr Wood, alongside leading experts from the Faculty of Arts: 

• Professor Matt Bower: From the Macquarie School of Education who specialises in the innovative use of technology to improve learning outcomes and experiences, and contributed to the design of the Australian Framework of Generative AI in Schools 
• Dr Jodie Torrington: Researcher, educator, and manager of the Macquarie University Teachers’ Learning Hub, whose work focuses on self-regulated learning in digital contexts and how teachers can use AI effectively 
• Dr Tamika Worrell: Senior Lecturer in Critical Indigenous Studies, whose research explores Indigenous representation, Indigenous education, and Indigenous digital lives—including artificial intelligence

This is a conversation for anyone interested in the future of education—whether you're a teacher, student, parent, researcher, or simply curious about how technology is shaping the way we learn. We invite you to spread the word about this event among your community who may be interested.

This Arts After Dark event aims to be as inclusive and accessible as possible, and will include the following accessibility features: 

• Live captioning
• Wheelchair access
• Accessible seating  
• Q&A to be conducted via Slido.com
• Freedom to stand and move at rear of hall as required
• Accessible parking—accessibility campus map 

There will be a low sensory option of the pre-panel refreshments and engagement period, from 5.15pm – 5.45pm. This will offer a quieter, less stimulating environment for those who prefer it. If you’re interested, please indicate this when registering; this option will be limited to ensure a low-sensory environment so if the allocation is exhausted at the time of your registration you may register to join the waitlist. Please note, to prioritise the access of those who have registered for this portion of the evening, there will be iPad check-in for this portion of the night. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Gemma Ryan at gemma.ryan@mq.edu.au for any further details about this event.