Professor Tom Mackey to keynote XI Simposio Internacional

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – SEPTEMBER 19, 2024) Tom Mackey, a professor in the School of Arts and Humanities, is the keynote speaker for the XI Simposio Internacional, organized by the University of Magdalena in Santa Marta, Colombia. The conference, set for October 2-3, 2024, will focus on challenges and opportunities with artificial intelligence in education.

“I was honored to be invited this year as keynote when the main conference theme explores AI in education,” Mackey said. “AI is already having a significant impact on education worldwide. Although AI has been developing for decades, last year’s OPEN AI initiative which provided open access to ChatGPT expanded interest and influence exponentially. AI is being embedded in all facets of our daily life and continues to create dialogue in education.”

As keynote speaker, Mackey will focus on his specialty in metaliteracy and how to prepare learners to ethically produce information in the world of artificial intelligence. Mackey said he plans to highlight how theoretical models in metaliteracy are embedded in Empire State University’s Digital Media Arts programs, including specific learning activities in two courses: Digital Storytelling and Ethics of Digital Art and Design.

“These two case studies will illustrate the effectiveness of metaliteracy model in practice and how to design learning activities that encourage students to examine both ethical considerations and artistic possibilities of AI,” Mackey said. “Metaliteracy aligns nicely with emerging models for AI literacy and, in my view, offers a fully developed and holistic approach to learning. My hope is that attendees will gain an understanding of the core components of metaliteracy and how it is transferrable to wide ranging disciplines and learning situations.”

Mackey was a featured speaker and presenter at last year’s conference and said he is excited to continue to engage with researchers and practitioners from around the globe.

“This year’s focus on both the challenges and opportunities in AI in education is especially timely and I’m looking forward to engaging with and learning from all of the participants,” Mackey said.