On Sunday, 17 December 2024, Sophia University hosted an impactful event exploring the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Organized by the university and co-organised by the Faculty of Integrated Human Sciences, Department of Education, in partnership with the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), the session brought together diverse voices to examine education’s evolving landscape.
Held in both English and Japanese, with interpretation provided, the event successfully bridged linguistic and cultural divides, bringing together educators, thought leaders, and stakeholders to address pressing challenges and opportunities in education. This collaboration highlighted Sophia University and ASEF’s shared vision of driving innovation and strengthening ties between Asia and Europe in the educational landscape. The event served as a meaningful platform for dialogue, leaving a lasting impact on participants and contributing to the ongoing global conversation on education.
The event delved into the claims and challenges surrounding AI as a solution to education’s core issues, such as addressing educator shortages, improving student outcomes, and preparing learners for 21st-century careers. Drawing on critical perspectives, discussions highlighted the aspirational yet often oversimplified nature of these claims, raising concerns about ethics, agency, pedagogy, and surveillance. Participants reflected on the dual dimensions of AI in education—teaching and learning with AI (AIED) and teaching and learning about AI (AI Literacy)—emphasizing the need to empower educators and address the human rights and social justice implications of AI.
Ms Jyoti Rahaman, ASEF’s Education Innovation Lead, served as a discussant and panelist during the event, contributing her expertise on the intersection of AI and Education. Her insights emphasised the importance of empowering educators with AI tools while carefully addressing the ethical implications of integrating AI into teaching and learning. Her participation enriched discussions on the dual dimensions of AI in education—teaching with AI (AIED) and teaching about AI (AI Literacy)—highlighting ASEF’s commitment to fostering critical perspectives and collaborative solutions in shaping the future of education.
The event concluded with a call to critically engage with AI in education, debunking myths, challenging misconceptions, and encouraging a deeper exploration of its potential and limitations to shape a more equitable and ethical future for learners and educators worldwide.