AI in Education – Panel Discussion

MODERATOR:
Conor Galvin, PhD is Director of the Doctorate programmes at UCD School of Education, Dublin, where he also teaches on various education sciences, sustainability, public policy, and research methods programmes. His research interests include sustainability and just transition, policy and policy networks, professional knowledge, and the impact of new and emergent technology on learning and society. He is mostly harmless.

Niall Larkin is the Senior Leader for Digital Technologies at Oide. With a background as a primary school teacher, he now leads a team focused on embedding digital technologies into learning, teaching and assessment. Niall’s efforts concentrate on professional development and support for teachers to enhance teaching and learning. He holds a Master’s degree in Information and Communication Technologies from Mary Immaculate College, bringing both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to his role. Niall’s work involves planning and delivering training programs including projects on artificial intelligence, inclusive education, augmented and virtual reality and computational thinking. 

Róisín Beaver began teaching in 1999. Since then she has taught English and Computing to many students. Róisín was an early adopter of technology in the classroom and she continues increasing her skills in this area. Róisín gained the “Microsoft Innovative Educator” award a number of years ago and also has the “Apple Teacher” qualification. Initial teacher education is something Róisín is passionate about and has been involved in since 2014, when she began working with Trinity College Dublin as a casual lecturer/ PME supervisor in the Education Department.

Simon Lewis is principal of Carlow Educate Together NS. He has spent the last two decades training teachers to make the best from educational technology through his workshops and courses. During the first wave of COVID19, Simon helped half the principals in Ireland with a number of sessions on getting started with remote learning and continues to follow the latest advancements in educational technology. Simon runs a podcast called “If I were the Minister for Education” – a regular examination of the primary education sector. He also runs Mash.ie, a site for teachers to share their resources, as well as several other educational sites. He regularly appears in the media discussing issues relating to primary education.

Patrick Hickey is an experienced History and English teacher, who stands as one of the leading voices on AI education in the country. To date, thousands of educators across all educational levels have  benefited from his courses through the various education centres. Featured in various media including RTÉ, TV3’s “Tonight Show” and Newstalk Radio. Patrick advocates the ethical deployment of AI within the educational sector, seeing it as a pivotal tool to elevate both teaching and learning. 

Natalie Doyle Bradley is an experienced educator with a deep commitment to integrating technology into education. With a career spanning over two decades, Natalie has played a key role in bringing digital advancements into her classrooms and schools. She organised the first networked server in her school back in 1998! She has a special interest in Assistive Technology and is particularly passionate about how assistive technology can level the playing field.

Currently, as a Special Education Teacher, an Assistant Principal and ICT Coordinator at Chanel College, she has been pivotal in updating the school’s digital infrastructure and integrating new teaching tools. Natalie holds a Post Grad in ICT for Education, another in 21st Century Teaching and Learning along with a plethora of other qualifications in technology, leadership and education. Natalie is not just about hardware; she’s also deeply involved in developing digital literacy, offering professional development for staff, and leading initiatives that explore innovative educational methods.

Beyond her school, Natalie founded a support network for Special Education teachers on Facebook, which has grown to over 16,000 members and another called “Tech in Irish Schools”. These groups are platforms for educators to exchange ideas and support each other.