Above: Attendees and volunteers at Innovation Alley, EduTECH.  

Photo credit: Edugrowth.org.au 

Victoria is home to 254 EdTech companies—about one-third of Australia’s total—supporting 6,800 FTE jobs and contributing more than $1.4 billion annually to the economy (source: EduGrowth).

Considering this vibrant ecosystem, Melbourne EdTech Week 2024, beginning on Tuesday 13 August and sponsored by Study Melbourne, is set to be a key event for those at the intersection of education and technology. This year’s focus on artificial intelligence (AI) will explore its transformative impact on the education sector. 

To help you plan your time at the event, we’ve identified some of the essential AI-focused events that offer valuable insights and engaging discussions. 

1. The Great Debate: AI in Assessment 

Date: Tuesday 13 August 2024 

Time: 10:00 am 

Location: Innovation Stage, EduTECH 

Kickstart the week with a critical debate on AI's role in assessments. Join Ralph Saubern (Deputy CEO, ACARA), Sandra Milligan (Executive Director, Assessment Research Centre, University of Melbourne), and David Linke (Managing Director, EduGrowth) as they explore whether AI can deliver fair and personalised assessments. This session is a must for those interested in the ethical and practical challenges of integrating AI into education. 

2. A Future Without Fear: Scaling Classrooms with Engaged Active Students 

Date: Tuesday 13 August 2024 

Time: 11:00 am 

Location: Innovation Stage, EduTECH 

With increasing challenges in teacher recruitment and retention, this session explores how AI can support educators in managing large classrooms. Colin Axup (President, Victorian Association of State Secondary Principal), Michelle Dennis (Head of Digital, Haileybury), and James Hull (Co-Founder, EdUp) will discuss innovative tools that enhance classroom management and student engagement. This event offers practical insights into how technology can address some of education's most pressing issues. 

3. AI Enabling Creativity in STEM Education 

Date: Tuesday 13 August 2024 

Time: 12:00 pm 

Location: Innovation Stage, EduTECH 

Discover how AI is fostering creativity in STEM education. Prof. Angela Carbone (Associate DVC Learning Teaching & Quality, STEM College, RMIT University) and Karsten Schultz (Managing Director & CEO, Digital Technologies Institute) will lead a discussion on how generative AI tools are being used to inspire innovative thinking among students. This session is perfect for educators looking to incorporate cutting-edge technology into their STEM programmes. 

4. Turbocharge Your Classroom: Utilising Generative AI 

Date: Tuesday 13 August 2024 

Time: 1:00 pm 

Location: Innovation Stage, EduTECH 

This session will showcase how generative AI can revolutionise classroom teaching methods. Join Travis Smith (Education Industry Lead, Microsoft), Jason Lodge (Deputy Associate Dean, University of Queensland), and Lisa Sayers (Sales and Account Manager, Wonde) as they explore how AI can accelerate the learning process and prepare students for a future where AI plays a central role. It's a great opportunity to learn about practical applications of AI in education. 

5. Engaging the Disengaged 

Date: Tuesday 13 August 2024 

Time: 2:00 pm 

Location: Innovation Stage, EduTECH 

Explore how technology, including AI, can create inclusive learning environments. Fiona Boyd (Co Founder, EdSmart), Eddie Blass (Founder, Inventorium), and Catherine Mattiske (CEO, GQ Global) will discuss how educators can use AI tools to support diverse learning needs. This session is essential for those interested in fostering an inclusive and engaging classroom experience. 

6. Education’s Responsibility: Managing AI Ethically 

Date: Wednesday 14 August 2024 

Time: 10:00 am 

Location: Innovation Stage, EduTECH 

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into educational systems, ethical considerations are paramount. Andrew Smith (CEO, Education Services Australia) and Michael Henderson (Professor, Monash University) will explore the principles of ethical AI usage, focusing on fairness, transparency, and data privacy. This session provides essential guidance for educators, tech developers, and policymakers alike. 

7. The Transformed Learning Landscape Through AI 

Date: Monday 19 August 2024 

Time: 11:30 am 

Location: Melbourne EdTech Summit 

Join Ray Fleming (Chief Education Officer, InnovateGPT), Jana Perera (Director Commercial, Monash College), and Dragan Gasevic (Professor, Monash University) as they delve into how AI is reshaping education. From personalised tutoring systems to adaptive assessments, this session will explore the various ways AI can revolutionise educational outcomes and create more engaging learning experiences. It’s a comprehensive look at the future of learning through the lens of AI. 

Above: An audience listening to a panel discussion at EduTECH Week.  

Photo credit: Edugrowth.org.au 

Why Attend?  

Melbourne EdTech Week 2024 is an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the latest advancements in educational technology. With AI at the forefront, this year's event will offer a deep dive into how these technologies are transforming the educational landscape. Whether you're an educator, a tech enthusiast, or an industry professional, these sessions provide invaluable insights and practical knowledge to navigate the future of learning.

Find out more about Melbourne EdTech Week 2024.