The ISPC 2024 kicked off on Thursday afternoon with a thoughtful start to global collaboration around the topic of Digital Management and Innovations. In this article, we would like to reflect a little on the experiences.
Attending the ISPC 2024 conference on digital management in Cologne was a profound experience. It offered valuable insights into the role of technology and global cooperation in shaping education. The conference opening brought together leaders from various universities and emphasized the transformative impact of digital tools and artificial intelligence in academic environments. Although I was not physically present, the atmosphere and intellectual rigor were felt as global challenges were discussed and solutions presented.
The session began with reflections on the evolution of education in the face of technology. Meanwhile drawing parallels between today’s AI-driven landscape and the earlier introduction of calculators in mathematics. The speakers agreed that the integration of digital tools, like ChatGPT, is inevitable. Therefore, universities must develop strategies to harness the benefits of these tools while mitigating risks such as plagiarism. One speaker aptly remarked, “Banning it doesn’t work… we should shape it in a way that we gain the best advantages while managing the downsides.”
Assessment Methods in Exams
A key topic was the transformation of assessment methods. The traditional written exam, long regarded as a benchmark for competence, is being re-evaluated. In light of technological advances, more educators are exploring formative assessments. Ongoing evaluations throughout the course rather than summative exams at the end. These changes reflect the need to find more natural ways of assessing skills in a world where students regularly work with digital tools.
Dr. George Kakawa’s Presentation
The conference opening took an interesting turn when Dr. George Kakawa, a representative from East European University in Georgia, presented the rapid growth and commitment of his university to international standards. Dr. Kakawa’s presentation highlighted the importance of global collaboration for academic development. Over the past 12 years, his university has partnered with leading European institutions such as UCL and Sorbonne University, establishing itself as a pioneer in education and digital transformation.
His pride in the university’s achievements was palpable, especially when discussing the doctoral programs developed in collaboration with British institutions. These partnerships have not only elevated academic standards but also opened doors for students to participate in exchange programs across Europe. Dr. Kakawa emphasized the crucial role of international cooperation in equipping students with the skills they need for the digital age.
AI in Higher Education
Another key topic was the role of AI in higher education. Dr. Kakawa shared his concerns about students’ increasing reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT. He recounted an incident where an entire essay contained no citations, a clear sign it had been generated by AI. This challenge is one that many educators face, highlighting the need for new guidelines and strategies to encourage students to engage in critical thinking and independent research.
Focus on International Collaborations
Toward the end of the session, the focus shifted to international collaborations. This play a significant role in shaping ISPC and other academic initiatives. A particularly memorable moment was when Dr. Kakawa received a certificate marking five years of collaboration between his university and the International University. This recognition signified a milestone in their partnership and a commitment to future cooperation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ISPC 2024 conference opening was a compelling exploration of how global collaboration and digital innovation are transforming education. The discussions underscored the need for universities to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape while maintaining academic integrity. As the conference progresses, I look forward to seeing how these insights will shape the future of education and digital management. Stay tuned for more updates from ISPC 2024!