The International Council for Open and Distance Education’s 29th World Conference was a three-day collaborative event with representatives from over 25 countries who all met in San Jose, Costa Rica. The country was beautiful, and the people were extremely hospitable! The conference had diverse keynote speakers and multiple breakout sessions, including panels and research presentations and proposals.
On the second day, I co-presented with Jack Rice, the Director of Online Learning and Graduate and Professional Studies at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Canada. We presented about the connection between St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Francis Xavier and how they pursued providing wide-spread education for all as a large part of the mission of the Society of Jesus, of which they were both founding members. We looked at how ASPIRE, Loyola’s Center for Continuing Education, has been a case study in getting back to some of the roots of this mission. We explored ASPIRE’s movement from focus of creation of content to curation of content; how high tech is important in being high touch, particularly for learners that are typically on the margins; and how internal, external, and interinstitutional partnerships are essential to support learners.
Over the three days of the conference, three major interconnected themes emerged. The first was how technology, particularly artificial intelligence, will continue to shape the digital transformation of learning. Generative AI, such as Chat GPT and Bard, as well as new connection platforms, all push higher education forward into a new future. While we’re still in the baby stages of AI, it will continue to bring new opportunities and challenges for education. With the assistance of technology though, we can better collaborate and be prepared to face these challenges together.
The second theme that emerged was equity and increased access for all students. Many studies are being done about how technology is providing more access for students than ever before, but barriers still exist for students with disabilities or students who have food insecurity or lack of reliable internet access. Not only was the question of equity explored, but also the vital role quality and accessible higher education plays in the economic growth for underdeveloped countries and regions. Open educational resources are also helping to provide flexibility to students to learn while still caring for their other needs.
The final theme was how micro-credentialing can increase the visibility and transferability of skill validation, particularly across countries and cultures. Institutions and training organizations are finding ways to utilize technology to help break down relevant skills and give credit for learning that is done outside of the formal setting. These micro-credentials provide a more flexible way for learners to earn validation for skills, allowing relief from some of the stress of high-stakes evaluations, which leads to better mental health for learners.
Overall, it was very refreshing to gather with others who are so committed to understanding learners’ needs and being so dedicated to meeting those needs. I’m excited to continue to see the various higher education institutions and training organizations that were represented continue to work together!