Blending AI and Human Creativity in Learning
May 13 | 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Join us for a panel discussion that delves into the dynamic intersection of generative AI and human creativity in shaping meaningful learning experiences. Designed for faculty, staff, and students, this panel will explore how AI can support educators and learners to innovate, personalize education, brainstorm ideas, and tackle challenges. At the same time, it will address critical concerns, including over-reliance on AI, the potential impact on critical thinking, and ethical implications. Join us as we navigate the opportunities, challenges, and ethical dimensions of harmonizing human ingenuity with AI collaboration.
Date:
Tuesday, May 13 | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Location:
Zoom
Panel (click/tap on name to see bio):
Ron Darvin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Language and Literacy Education of UBC Vancouver. His research examines issues of critical digital literacies, generative AI, equity, and identity. He has conducted multiple professional development workshops for various school districts in BC on the implications of generative AI for learning, and has published articles on generative AI in Computers in Human Behaviour, Computer Assisted Language Learning and Journal of Second Language Writing.
Danny Bakan teaches teachers about music and the arts, and he teaches musicians and artists about teaching. Prior to joining the faculty in 2017 as a lecturer in the Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Education, Danny Bakan taught creative arts pedagogy at Ryerson University’s School of Early Childhood Education and Interdisciplinary Creative Arts at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. In addition to his work in higher education and schools, Danny is an established musician, composer and theatre artist whose artistic portfolio includes several CDs, performances across North America, theatrical productions, dance scores, children’s musicals, and appearances on CBC, syndicated US radio, and NPR. In 2015, Daniel Bakan completed his Ph.D. at the University of British Columbia in curriculum studies with an award-winning dissertation on songwriting and artography.
Dr. Sonya Woloshen (Elle / She / Her) has 15+ years of experience in education, including K-12, French Immersion, and roles with the Ministry of Education. She holds a BA in French and Art History, a BEd in French Education, and an MA and PhD in Educational Technology and Learning Design from Simon Fraser University. Her research focuses on Learning Analytics and Artificial Intelligence and she is dedicated to creating anti-oppressive learning environments. Sonya is the new Learning Design Program Manager in the Teacher Education Program at the University of British Columbia’s Vancouver campus, helping learners and faculty integrate digital literacies and competencies into their pedagogical practices.
Mike Elkoussy is an adult ELL teacher with over 19 years experience. Mike has spent the past 15 years running his own school, Eh Plus English, which is focused on helping adults increase their fluency and speaking skills. Currently, he is completing a Bachelor of Education at the University of British Columbia in the International Baccalaureate Cohort, as part of his transition from teaching adults to teaching children. Mike's focus has always been on using digital tools to help students improve quickly and efficiently, and he has an extensive background in using AI for lesson creation, adaptations, curricular modifications and gamification.