The Australian International Education Conference – October, 2023: “International Education, Visionary and Informative”

On Tuesday 20th October to Friday 13th October 2023, Mr Frank Catalano , Ms Samantha Dell'Aquila and Ms Kimberley Bennet represented GWPS at the Australian International Education Conference themed "International Education, Visionary and Informative."

Attending the conference provided a unique opportunity to hear from world-renowned speakers and international education leaders, which we found to be an immensely valuable experience.

Key Insights from the Conference

Artificial Intelligence: Dr. Catherine Ball, a Scientific Futurist, discussed the significance of AI. She emphasized that AI is not artificial but created and developed by humans. As AI advances, the importance of "Explainable AI" (XAI) becomes evident to ensure transparency and trust.
AI in Education: Some tertiary institutions are using AI to design courses and assess students' work. The use of AI in education is on the rise, and educators need to adapt to leverage its advantages.
Top Trends Shaping Education: Ashley Fell, from McCrindle, highlighted that the pace of change is accelerating. The percentage of people born overseas in Australia is increasing, and the number of international students is on the rise. Generations like Gen Alpha are globally connected, well-educated, and technologically savvy.
Skills and Competencies for the 21st Century Learner: The skills, competencies, and character qualities required for students include foundational literacies, competencies for complex tasks, and character qualities to adapt to a changing environment.
Changing Student Expectations: Students now favor quick and short content, often seeking experiences that align with their values, ethics, and identity. They look for brands and organizations that align with their values and make a positive social contribution.
Student Voice in International Education: Tertiary institutions are increasingly valuing student input, but Glen Waverley Primary School's approach goes beyond, with more robust student involvement.
Interculturalism and Global Citizenship: While the conference focused on international education in the tertiary context, the school presented its unique approach to intercultural learning, involving activities related to multiculturalism.

Networking Opportunities Established

The conference allowed for valuable networking, including potential collaborations with Confidence Hackers Australia, artist Jessamy Gee, Kailey Milroy from the Department for Education in Tasmania, and futurist Ashley Fell.

In conclusion our attendance at the Australian International Education Conference was an honour and privilege. The school looks forward to implementing the insights gained from the conference, further enriching the education it provides to its students.