Introduction

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have become permanent features in the 21st Century classrooms. Hence, educators with their trainers must familiarise themselves with how to maximise the potential of these cognitive tools while paying attention to ethical and practical considerations.

Description

This four-hour workshop equips educators and instructional designers with the knowledge and skills to integrate Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as cognitive tools into distance education. Participants will explore AI applications that enhance teaching, learning and assessment, guided by the SPET Model (2023) and Activity Theory (2022), which emphasise learner-centred approaches and lifelong learning principles.

The workshop will consist of the following interactive sessions:

  • Session 1: Participants will discover practical uses of AI in distance education through case studies and brainstorming activities.
  • Session 2: Participants will design an actionable AI integration strategy tailored to their educational context.

The workshop concludes with a recap of key takeaways, a discussion on ethical and practical considerations, and resources for continued exploration. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how to integrate GenAI and AI effectively into their distance education offerings.

Requirements for participants

  • A reliable Wi-Fi connection.
  • An electronic device (laptop, tablet or smartphone).

     

Facilitator
 



Jody Joubert,  University of Pretoria, South Africa

Jody Joubert is a lecturer of Computer Integrated Education (CIE) in the Department of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education (SMTE) in the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Education. He also manages the Living Lab for Innovative Teaching (LLITUP) Research Unit, focusing on collaborative, interdisciplinary educational research. Jody holds a master’s degree in Education, focusing on CIE and the use of technology to support teachers who are geographically dispersed through blended learning. As the manager of LLITUP, Jody fosters a collaborative research environment, working with partners and postgraduate students to drive innovation in education with purposeful technology integration. With expertise in technology-driven education, Jody actively contributes to the development of innovative teaching methodologies and collaborative research. In his mission to empower 21st-century learners through interactive, student-centred approaches, Jody adopts and experiments with several emerging technologies, including virtual reality, augmented reality, mobile technology and, more recently, AI and GenAI. Jody’s work has led to the development of innovative teaching modules that integrate emerging technologies, fostering an interactive and engaging learning environment for students across various disciplines.