Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly transforming various sectors, and education is no exception. Common questions arise: How can AI personalize learning experiences? What are the ethical implications of integrating AI into classrooms? Will AI in education replace human educators? And is using AI for homework cheating?
As schools around the globe grapple with these questions, IE University decided to tackle them head-on at its EdTech 2024 conference. We sent an envoy from Driving Innovation to uncover how the institution is tackling the challenges—and opportunities—of a tech-driven future in education.
Can AI be the ultimate teacher’s assistant?
Dr. Ikhlaq Sidhu, Dean of the IE School of Science and Technology, thinks so—if we use it wisely. The Dean of the IE School of Science and Technology and creator of the Berkeley Method of Entrepreneurship presented a bold yet simple idea: double testing. “Students need to master the fundamentals without AI, but they should also learn to apply these advanced tools in real-world projects.”
Think of it like math class with and without a calculator—tests on the basics? No AI allowed. But when it’s time for big projects and problem-solving? Bring on the bots! Therefore, with over 60 patents and a career shaping teaching frameworks, Dr. Sidhu emphasized the need for educators to define AI’s role clearly, ensuring it becomes a tool for empowerment and not dependency or “cheating”.
Introducing the EdgeLab: the future of AI in education
At a panel featuring Begoña González-Cuesta (Dean of Education & Academic Experience), Diego Soroa (Academic Director of EdgeLab) and Ulrike Klaussner (Director of Education & Academic Experience), IE University unveiled its latest initiative to push the boundaries of education: EdgeLab. Designed as a hub for experimentation, the lab aims to harness AI and other technologies to rethink how students learn and how professors teach.
“Artificial intelligence isn’t just a tool—it’s a profound paradigm shift, and plugging it into old systems simply won’t work,” emphasized Klaussner. To that end, their first experiments are studying how critical thinking is taught and using AI-driven tools to enhance research productivity and learning outcomes.
Soroa also underscored the lab’s mission: “The EdgeLab is an operating system—a framework that makes experimentation sustainable, systematic and safe.” Thus, by fostering innovation and empowering its people, IE University continues to lead in creating meaningful change through initiatives like the EdgeLab.
How AI and VR are changing the game at IE University
Here at IE University, our experts are rewriting the rulebook on education with AI and immersive tech. Cynthia Bowles, Executive Director of Digital Learning, shared how her team uses generative AI in education to handle tasks like drafting syllabi and creating quizzes. “The possibilities are endless, but we’re committed to using them responsibly,” she said, highlighting their focus on thoughtful, ethical implementation.
Emilio Guillot and Lili Valentine, directors leading multimedia and online programs, are diving into VR and 360-degree video to craft more engaging learning experiences. By prioritizing immersion and storytelling, they aim to pull students into distraction-free environments where every moment feels meaningful. In essence, “As humans, we love stories. Following a coherent story in a learning experience is powerful and memorable,” Valentine explained.
Our approach is all about making these tools work for students, not the other way around—turning tech into a true partner in learning.
Theory is nice, but let’s put tech to the test
It wasn’t all talk. At IE University, it never is. Outside the auditorium, conference guests got a taste of the future with a VR job interview simulator powered by AI. Our envoy jumped in and was impressed by the AI avatar’s realistic questions and constructive feedback—though it didn’t hold back on tough critiques.
From selecting a boardroom or outdoor setting to practicing responses to nuanced questions, the tool offered a glimpse into how students can build confidence before stepping into real-world interviews. While human feedback is still essential, this AI-driven practice is a powerful step forward.
The future of AI in education
As our envoy walked away from the conference, the takeaway was simple: IE University isn’t just imagining the future of education—it’s making it happen. Initiatives like EdgeLab and tools like AI tutors and VR simulations aren’t about replacing human connection. On the contrary, they’re about amplifying it, giving students and educators new ways to connect, innovate and grow.