Reflecting on the Afternoon Sessions of Day 1 at IACEDUCATION 2024

After an invigorating morning of thought-provoking discussions and innovative ideas, the afternoon sessions of Day 1 at the 8th International Academic Conference on Education (IACEDUCATION) continued to build on the momentum. The focus shifted toward the intersection of technology, sustainability, and empathy in education, with a diverse array of presentations that highlighted the transformative power of these elements in shaping the future of learning.

As we delved into topics ranging from technological innovations for sustainable education to the ethical use of AI in the classroom, it became clear that the integration of these tools is not just about enhancing academic outcomes—it's about fostering a more empathetic, inclusive, and sustainable world. The insights shared during these sessions have reinforced the mission of the Citizen Entrepreneur Explorer Program (CEEP) and provided new avenues for integrating cutting-edge technology with emotional intelligence in our educational practices.

• Dr. Maisoun Alzankawi (Kuwait) Talk: The Contribution of Technological Innovations to Enhance Education for Sustainable Development Reflection: Alzankawi’s focus on sustainability through technology offers insights into how CEEP can further integrate technological innovations to support sustainable educational practices.
• Dr. gengzhao chen & Cheng Wui Wing (Hong Kong) Talk: Exploring the Opportunities and Challenges of ChatGPT in Tertiary Education: A Case Study on Assessment and Academic Integrity Reflection: The discussion on ChatGPT by Chen and Wing is particularly relevant to CEEP’s exploration of AI, providing a framework to balance innovation with integrity.
• Woo Yan Yin (Hong Kong) Talk: Integrating Generative AI into Service-Learning: Enhancing Student Learning and Financial Literacy for the Elderly Through Game-Based Activities Reflection: Yin’s work on generative AI in service-learning parallels CEEP’s use of AI to enhance experiential learning, contributing to the development of self-efficacy in students.

Dr Yin! This action research is exceptional with connection with #servicebased #learning and #GenAI. I was so impressed. It'd be great to see a subgroup that was doing CEEP research on the students' work or overall project.

• Prof. Dr. Hsiu-Feng Wan (Taiwan) Talk: Effects of the Social Robots’ Instructional Role on Learning Outcome and Emotion Reflection: The use of social robots in education, as discussed by Dr. Wang, could inform CEEP’s approach to incorporating technology that supports emotional and psychological development.
• Biwei Cong (China) Talk: Teacher Facilitation in Promoting Collaboration in Film Production Class Reflection: Cong’s focus on collaboration in creative fields resonates with CEEP’s emphasis on teamwork and empathy in business and art education.
• Prof. Dr. Frances Shiobara (Japan) Talk: Unexpected Benefits of Study Abroad Reflection: Dr. Shiobara’s findings on the benefits of study abroad highlight the importance of experiential learning, a cornerstone of CEEP’s methodology.
• Nilufarkhon Makhamadalievna Umarova (Japan) Talk: Policy Options for Protection of Orphans and Children Deprived of Parental Care: A Case Study from Uzbekistan Reflection: Umarova’s work on protection policies underscores the need for empathy in policy-making, aligning with CEEP’s focus on emotional intelligence.
• Dr. Mohammad Aljaidyah (Kuwait) Talk: Human Rights Education in Kuwait: Perceptions, Experiences, and Beliefs of Student-Teachers in Kuwait University College of Education Reflection: Aljaidyah’s exploration of human rights education reinforces the role of empathy in understanding and advocating for the rights of others, a key objective of CEEP.
• Dr. Cheng-Yu Hung (Taiwan) Talk: Portrayals of Indigenous Peoples in Taiwanese Citizenship Education Reflection: Hung’s work on indigenous education aligns with CEEP’s goal of fostering empathy for diverse cultural perspectives within the classroom.

Wrapping Up Day 1 at IACEDUCATION 2024

As Day 1 of IACEDUCATION 2024 draws to a close, I am left with a deep sense of inspiration and optimism for the future of education. The afternoon sessions have not only showcased the remarkable potential of technological innovations but also underscored the critical importance of empathy and ethical considerations in their application.

From Dr. Maisoun Alzankawi's focus on sustainability through technology to Dr. Gengzhao Chen and Cheng Wui Wing's exploration of ChatGPT's role in maintaining academic integrity, the discussions today have illuminated the path forward for programs like CEEP. The emphasis on integrating AI and technology with a strong foundation in emotional intelligence and ethical practices is crucial for preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern world.

As we move into the next day of the conference, I am eager to continue these vital conversations and explore further how we can leverage these insights to enhance our educational methodologies. The collaboration and exchange of ideas today have set a powerful tone for the rest of the conference, and I look forward to seeing how these discussions will continue to evolve.