In this episode, of our special AI Impact series, Technology Partner Tom Maasland interviews Dr Geri Harris, Director of the Business Undergraduate Programme and a Senior Lecturer at Auckland University of Technology (AUT), about the transformative impact of AI on the education sector.

[01:17] Geri discusses how she integrates AI tools into her teaching practices, emphasising their efficiency and impact on both teaching and assessment. She highlights how AI can boost student engagement and interaction, and significantly reduce administrative workloads and assessment burdens, allowing educators to focus more time on teaching itself.

[06:11] Tom asks how widespread the use of AI is in New Zealand classrooms. Geri explains that, based on her work with the AI Forum and various educational institutions, it is apparent there is a clear divide in AI adoption. She emphasises the need for a forward-thinking, outward-looking mindset, encouraging the sector to learn from how international counterparts, such as Australia, Israel and Estonia are embracing and implementing AI in this sector

[09:25] Geri shares examples of impactful EdTech AI, including tools like Cogniti and Noodle Factory that automate student queries, freeing up lecturer time. She also highlights, Curipod which transforms lecture slides into interactive classroom activities, and AI agents tailored to different student personalities. They observe that such innovations support and enhance personalised learning, though Geri stresses the ongoing need for educator oversight and thoughtful implementation. 

[19:30] Tom and Geri discuss some of the biggest challenges preventing AI adoption in an educational setting, including the need to shift traditional mindsets around learning practices. Geri highlights the AI in Education Community of Practice as a valuable resource for peer-reviewed tools and shared experiences. She also points out broader systemic constraints for AI adoption, such as high teacher workloads, limited time for upskilling, and digital inequities.

[24:44] They discuss the evolving role of AI in education, emphasising the need to accept the role of AI in education and embed AI literacy within each discipline, preparing students for real-world use in their future careers. 

[28:16] Tom concludes the interview by asking Geri about the future of AI in education. Geri emphasises that AI should be embraced rather than resisted, highlighting the need for comprehensive policies, clear guidelines, and implementation roadmaps (including staff training and student use protocols) to ensure responsible and effective integration of AI in educational settings.

Information in this episode is accurate as at the date of recording, 6 May 2025.

Please contact Tom Maasland, Kate Cruickshank or our Technology team if you need legal advice and guidance on any of the topics discussed in the episode.

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