A couple of weeks ago, my colleagues and I had the privilege to attend the first conferences hosted by AI2 and UF Online. AI2 Summit and Intersections: Online Learning + Innovation in Higher Education attracted professionals from across the University of Florida, the state, and the country.

While the topics ranged from the technical (data use, enrollment management, artificial intelligence, etc.) to the universal (student engagement, adapting to change, ethics, leadership, etc.), the uniting theme was the potential of technology to facilitate the creation of genuine human connection in teaching and learning.

The conference organizers did a wonderful job of facilitating networking as an organic part of the experience. Many of the folks I had conversations with work at UF, but it can be difficult to maintain connections across campus amid the bustle of an average workday; it was helpful to catch up on interesting projects and shared challenges. I also connected with a couple of professionals from other Florida universities who are working on similar initiatives and exchanged contact information so that we can share resources and make our jobs more efficient.

AI2 Summit and Intersections will appeal to instructional designers, academic advisors, administrators, instructors, and anybody else who works to make quality educational experiences enhanced with technology and generative AI that center student needs. I encourage you to keep an eye out for registration next year if you are looking for connection and inspiration.

Tags:  Advising, Artificial Intelligence, Collaboration, Course Design, Engagement, Faculty Development, Instructional Design, Online Teaching, Pedagogy