News story

OEB Annual Debate Tackles the Role of AI in Education

BerlinLearning NewsOEB Learning Technologies Europe GmbH

OEB Annual Debate to Spotlight Controversial Topic: This House Believes that the Widespread Implementation of AI in Learning Will Do More Harm than Good".

Online Educa Berlin, renowned for leading the way in exploring the dynamic intersection of technology and education has since its inception in 1995, is set to host its annual OEB Debate from November 22-24, 2023, in Berlin. This year's hotly anticipated debate motion is: "This House Believes that the Widespread Implementation of AI in Learning Will Do More Harm than Good."

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) increasingly infiltrates the education sector, questions abound regarding its implications. Could the widespread adoption of AI in education lead to more challenges than advancements? The debate will critically evaluate a wide range of dimensions, from ethical dilemmas and societal impacts to preserving the human element in learning. It will also shine a spotlight on potential risks, including plagiarism and the complexities of AI-driven assessment methods.

Moderated by Maximilian Jarrett, former Radio Presenter at BBC World Service, the debate will feature four distinguished experts:

  • Beth Havinga, Founder and Managing Director, Connect-EdTech
  • Tim Unwin, Emeritus Professor of Geography, Royal Holloway, University of London
  • Donald Clark, eLearning Expert and Strategist, Plan B Learning
  • Inge de Waard, Learning Innovation Coordinator, EIT InnoEnergy

This deliberation aims to provide attendees with a holistic understanding of AI's true impact on education and training.

Background on the OEB Plenary Debate:

The OEB Plenary Debate, introduced in 2009, has become a highlight of the conference, known for its spirited and provocative discussions. It follows a parliamentary-style format, allowing two opposing sides to engage in a lively exchange of views. 

Participants are encouraged to engage with their respective sides before and during the conference. A meeting time has been scheduled for this purpose.

The OEB Annual Debate: "OEB Annual Debate: "This House Believes that the Widespread Implementation of AI in Learning Will Do More Harm than Good" will take place on Friday Nov 23, at 17:45. 

The full OEB 2023 Conference Agenda is online along with OEB 2023 Conference Ticket purchases and more information about the exhibition of new products and solutions, which runs alongside the conference.