Research Conference 2024

Mont Rose College Inaugural Research Conference: Sustainable Futures Powered by AI

On 19 June 2024, the Mont Rose College community came together for a ground-breaking inaugural research conference, showcasing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various sectors. This hybrid event underscored our dedication to exploring the cutting-edge of technology and its significant impact on education, business, and beyond. The conference featured a mix of online presenters from Africa and the Middle East, as well as in-person participants in the United Kingdom.

A Warm Welcome and Insightful Keynotes

The day commenced with a heartfelt welcome from our esteemed Principal, Ms. Sayeda Zain, setting an inspiring tone for the day ahead. The keynote addresses were nothing short of enlightening:

• Alex Bols, Deputy CEO of GuildHE, explored “Getting Beyond the Headlines: The Role of AI in Higher Education,” providing a nuanced understanding of AI’s capabilities and implications.
• Sajeel Ahmed, Acting Principal Lecturer, delved into “The Role of AI in Assessment,” highlighting AI’s transformative potential in evaluating student performance.
• Professor David Baker, Principal Consultant at David Baker Consultancies, joined us online to discuss the “Impact of AI on the Future of Libraries and Information Science,” envisioning the future of knowledge management.
• Aftab Zikria, Business Solutions Enterprise Architect, spoke on “AI Driving the Future of Work,” showcasing the evolving landscape of employment and enterprise.

Interactive Engagement and Breakout Sessions

The audience actively engaged in discussions, followed by a stimulating poster presentation by our talented researchers, including Dr. Jahanzaib Irfan, Dr. Smita Shukla, Mr. Milcho Kaludov, Ms. Rumana Chowdhury, and Mr. Gbenga Ogunrinde.

Post a networking lunch, participants attended three focused breakout sessions that covered a wide array of AI applications:

Breakout Session 1:

• Green HRM: The Myths and the Realities in a World Driven by AI
• AI-Generated Learning Materials in Higher Education

Breakout Session 2:

• Building Resilient Entrepreneurship Ecosystems through AI-Driven Innovation Hubs
• AI-Driven Virtual Reality (VR) in Higher Education

Breakout Session 3:

• AI and Technology Tools in Education Policy and Academic Integrity
• AI-Powered Sustainability in Business

Celebration and Closure

The conference concluded with a tea break, an award ceremony recognising outstanding contributions, and closing remarks by Dr. Samson Ojo, leaving attendees inspired and eager for future innovations.

Join the Conversation

We invite you to follow our journey and stay connected as we continue to explore the incredible potential of AI in transforming education and beyond. Let’s build the future together!

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the Mont Rose College Research Conference on our social media pages.

 

Getting Beyond the Headlines: The Role of AI in Higher Education

Presenter: Dr. Alex Bols
Position: Deputy CEO, GuildHE

Dr. Alex Bols’ presentation delves into the significant impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on higher education. He highlights how AI can enhance learning experiences through personalised pathways, streamline administrative tasks, and drive educational innovations with adaptive learning systems and intelligent tutoring. Dr. Bols also addresses the benefits of AI, such as data-driven insights and improved accessibility, while discussing challenges like bias, fairness, and data privacy. He concludes with future directions, encouraging continuous innovation and collaborative efforts to fully harness AI’s potential in higher education.

For more detailed insights, please refer to Dr. Bols’ slides here.

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Artificial Intelligence in Assessments

Presenter: Dr. Sajeel Ahmed
Position: Acting Principal Lecturer in Business Operations, University of Bedfordshire

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising various sectors, and education is no exception. In his compelling presentation, Dr. Sajeel Ahmed delves into the pivotal role of AI in transforming assessment methodologies within educational frameworks. Key areas covered include shifting from product-focused to process-focused assessments, personalising assessment design, adapting to AI advancements, enhancing learning outcomes, and strategically implementing AI-driven tools. Dr. Ahmed’s insights are crucial for educators, administrators, and policymakers looking to harness AI’s power for improved educational assessments and outcomes.

For a comprehensive understanding of his strategies, please refer to Dr. Ahmed’s slides here.

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AI and the Future of Library and Information Science

Presenter: Professor David Baker
Position: Director, David Baker Consulting

In this compelling presentation, Professor David Baker explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Library and Information Science (LIS). He highlights AI’s role in revolutionising information access, personalising user experiences, and automating routine tasks. Professor Baker also discusses the benefits of AI integration, such as enhanced services and resource optimisation, while addressing ethical issues, skill development, and infrastructure needs. He concludes with future prospects for AI in LIS, emphasising continuous evaluation and adaptation to maximise benefits.

For a detailed exploration of these topics, please refer to Professor Baker’s slides here.

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AI Driving the Future of Work

Presenter: Mr. Aftab Zikria

Position: Business Solutions Enterprise Architect

In this insightful presentation, Mr. Aftab Zikria delves into the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming the future of work. He discusses the importance of AI in enhancing productivity, operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Mr. Zikria emphasises the need for strategic AI implementation, including planning, technology investment, and workforce training. He also addresses challenges such as ethical concerns and change management. His presentation highlights how AI is set to drive significant changes in the workplace, offering numerous benefits and necessitating careful strategy and ethical consideration.

To explore Mr. Aftab Zikria’s perspectives further, please see the attached slides here.

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Perspectives on AI: Quotes from Our Keynote Speakers

‘AI will not take your job, but someone who can use it better than you will.’ – Dr. Alex Bols ‘The role of AI in higher education is not just about the technology itself, but how we integrate it to enhance learning and teaching.’ – Dr. Alex Bols

‘Assessment should be process-focused rather than product-focused.’ – Dr. Sajeel Ahmed ‘Personalised assessments are essential for assessment design in embedding AI in assessments.’ – Dr. Sajeel Ahmed

‘You need to upskill and build internal capability as AI evolves; otherwise, you are out of the game.’ – Aftab Zikria

‘Unending opportunities knock from the AI landscape.’ – Aftab Zikria ‘Companies could face bankruptcy if they fail to adapt to AI advancements.’ – Aftab Zikria

‘AI users must understand limitations, biases, and practise critical thinking for responsible utilisation in the digital age.’ – Professor David Baker

‘Creating metadata is the most time and effort-intensive activity in digital library development.’ – Professor David Baker

‘Users must understand limitations, biases, and practise critical thinking for responsible utilisation in a digital age.’ – Professor David Baker