The transformation of problem-based learning in medical education, the rediscovery of higher education’s true purpose and the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence were among the themes explored at the fifth National GenAIEdu Conference held this week at Ulster University’s Belfast Campus.
Organised by the School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems, Faculty of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment in partnership with South West College and supported by BringITON and Connected NI, the three-day event brought together leading voices from the worlds of AI and Education.
Delegates examined the challenges, practicalities, pitfalls, and opportunities of using Generative AI in the classroom with a sharp focus on safeguardiing the integrity of the assessment process.
Professor Colin Turner, Pro Vice Chancellor & Executive Dean of Faculty of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment, Ulster University said:
“As the technical developments in AI continue to accelerate, we are already seeing its impact on the job market. The fifth iteration of the GenAIEdu Conference will help all of those working in education not only to understand how AI can be used more effectively within education, but to explore how education may change in preparing pupils and students for different working lives.
"This conference is about giving educators, policymakers and students the awareness and practical tools they need to navigate the rapidly evolving world of AI. Over three days, participants have engaged in thought-provoking discussions, hands-on workshops, and live demonstrations of GenAI in action. Most importantly, they have connected with leading voices who are shaping the future of learning and safeguarding academic standards.”
This year’s conference featured a distinguished line-up of national and international speakers:
- Dr Hazel Farrell, national lead of the N-TUTORR GenAI:N3 project, on strategic leadership in the age of AI
- Jonathan Sansom, Director of Digital strategy at Hills Road Sixth Form College, Cambridge, showcased his pioneering work on classroom AI tools and educator-led GenAI design with Copilot Studio
- Professor Danny Liu from the University of Sydney, examined the realities of AI in assessment
- Dr Caroline Clewley, AI Futurist at Imperial College London, delivered “From AI Shortcuts to Authentic Learning: Rediscovering the Purpose of Higher Education.”
Ulster University experts also played a central role with Professor Stephen Farry discussing AI policy opportunities and challenges for Northern Ireland; Dr Enjy Abouzeid highlighting AI's impact on problem-based learning in medical education; and Michael Callaghan leading a hands-on workshop, “Beginner’s Guide to AI".
Conference co-chair, Joanne McGovern, said:
“Conferences like this are vital as we navigate the rapid rise of generative AI in education. They not only support teachers with the knowledge and tools to adapt, but also spotlight innovative ways we can support learners in a world that’s changing fast. It’s about shaping an educational future that’s not just reactive, but confidently responsive, one that ensures every learner is equipped to thrive in the age of AI.”
Highlights of the 2025 conference included panel discussions on the opportunities and ethical challenges of tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Grok, and Copilot, alongside live demonstrations and interactive workshops. Two new features were also introduced: an AI in Research strand and the inaugural AI in Education Awards, celebrating best practice in classrooms across the UK and beyond.
As the pace of change accelerates, the GenAIEdu Conference continues to establish itself as a key platform for educators, researchers, and policymakers to share knowledge, spark innovation, and shape how future generations will learn in an AI-driven world.
