Transforming the training system amid the rise of generative AI

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionise education and training, spanning across the accredited and non-accredited post-secondary education system, and forcing the system to rapidly adapt.

Cherie Diaz, Executive Director, Education Innovation, Western Sydney University, highlights the pressing need to find ways to be more agile in responding to these technological shifts.

“It's important that we are adaptable, flexible and responsive,” says Cherie.

"We need to reflect on what processes we can improve or refine, rather than simply adding new initiatives without consideration. We must work to restructure our programs, refine content, and improve assessment practices.

“This echoes challenges faced in the vocational education sector regarding training package updates and keeping pace with technology,” says Cherie.

EMPOWERING LEARNERS WITH SKILLS

To navigate these shifts, Cherie stresses the need to equip individuals with skills and a deep understanding of the evolving technological landscape.

“Supporting both learners and staff is paramount across all sectors — be it schools, vocational education, or higher education. This support must extend beyond basic digital literacy to encompass AI proficiency and confidence.

"Education goes beyond simply teaching how to use tools; it encompasses crucial discussions about plagiarism, intellectual property, and copyright.

“It's essential to be responsive and utilise the valuable insights we gain from large language models and learning analytics to support students throughout their studies, and how we adjust our teaching and learning practices in a landscape where there is the potential for greater fluidity across learning stages or fast-tracking to higher-order skills as defined in Bloom’s Taxonomy,” says Cherie.

BRIDGING INDUSTRY AND TRAINING

Western Sydney University prioritises strong industry partnerships to ensure training is attuned to the impact of generative AI on the workplace.

“Collaboration with our industry technology partners like Microsoft and Adobe, as well as industry stakeholders and employers, is crucial in raising awareness of how generative AI is used in workplaces,” says Cherie.

"A great example is how we’re supporting EduGrowth in the establishment of an Australian Higher Education EdTech Innovation Network — a framework and community committed to co-designing, testing, and evidencing the impact of digital technology in education,” says Cherie.

CLOSING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

Cherie is optimistic about the potential of generative AI to facilitate upskilling and create employment opportunities, while also emphasising the need to ensure access for all Australians.

Western Sydney University is improving awareness and access for its students and staff in a range of ways including the development of generative AI principles, establishing an AI Pilot Committee, and pilots such as that with OpenLearning.

“We are also particularly excited about our work with MetaHuman. This is looking at how generative AI can be utilised to enable greater access for vocational/work-integrated learning readiness, as well as the ability to develop conversational and communication skills in a supportive and scaffolded environment,” says Cherie.

“We're mindful of the region we serve. We must assess the accessibility of these technologies and avoid assuming that all students are fluent in them to avoid widening the digital divide.”