CIL hosts faculty enrichment session on latest Blackboard AI features
Date Posted: October 29, 2024 at 04:34 PM
The Center for Innovative Learning, in partnership with education technology leader Anthology, hosted a significant training event titled “Anthology AI in Education: Update of AI Features in Blackboard Learn Ultra,” at the Co Po Ty Hall of the Dr. Carlos Tiu Building, October 21.
The event aimed to provide faculty members with insights into the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and their applications in Blackboard, an integrated learning management system.
A warm welcome from Dr. Rosula S.J. Reyes opened the program that featured faculty members from the different departments and colleges of the University.
During his inspirational message, University President Fr. Daniel Franklin E. Pilario, CM, touched upon the initial apprehension surrounding AI technology, comparing it to the past fears associated with electricity and calculators.
“When AI came to our horizons... the first major reaction was fear,” he shared, emphasizing that unfamiliar technology often triggers apprehension.
He then recalled how similar concerns arose decades ago with the advent of electricity in his hometown, likening that reaction to today’s anxieties over AI.
However, he urged faculty members to look beyond these fears, highlighting that the real challenge lies in exploring AI’s potentials, rather than its limits.
“I know this is new for some of us. For the younger faculty, I think they are very well used to this, but for us who were educated in the 1980s, we didn't have an AI calculator. During that time, there was no internet even. And there was no email during that time. But now, our students are into this,” he said.
“It's our duty to be with them, to walk with them.”
Reflecting on AI’s role in higher education, Fr. Pilario also mentioned that institutions like MIT are already leading the way, holding “weekly lectures with their faculty on how to use AI in their classroom situation.”
He also suggested that Adamson could adopt a similar approach, fostering continuous learning and adaptation among faculty members.
Mr. Nick Benwell, Client Experience Manager at Anthology, led technical sessions and guided attendees through a series of hands-on workshops and discussions, showcasing how Blackboard’s AI features can be applied to streamline tasks, enhance student engagement, and personalize learning experiences. Joining him was Mr. Eng Tang Lau, Anthology Solutions Engineer, who shared practical applications for classroom management and assessment.
The training concluded with an awarding of certificates and closing remarks by CIL Director Mr. William Bill Turnbull Jr.
