Swinburne AI in Education Podcast

In this episode of the AI in Education Podcast, host Rowena Ulbrick is joined by Dr Peter Brace, Lecturer in the Department of Social Sciences at Swinburne University of Technology. Together, they explore the philosophical questions raised by artificial intelligence, examining what intelligence really means, how human and machine thinking differ, and the uniquely human capabilities that remain essential in an AI-enabled world. This thought-provoking conversation offers fresh insights into the future of learning, teaching, and higher education.

How can universities move beyond experimentation with generative AI to a clear, institution-wide strategy? In this episode of Swinburne’s AI in Education podcast, host Rowena Ulbrick is joined by Dr. Melissa Vito (Vice Provost of Academic Innovation), Dr. Claudia Arcolin, Dr. Drew Stephen, and Dr. Rita Mitra from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) to explore how one university is scaling AI adoption across learning and teaching.

Together, they unpack UTSA’s strategic approach to generative AI, including the principles driving their work, the creation of AI Academic Ambassador roles, and the practical steps required to build capability across diverse disciplines.

The conversation dives into what it takes to translate strategy into everyday teaching and assessment, the challenges educators face, and the importance of involving students as active partners in shaping responsible AI use.

Whether you’re a university leader, educator, or learning designer, this episode offers insights into balancing innovation with integrity, and how collaboration across academic and professional teams can unlock AI’s potential to enhance student learning and success.

Join Professor Sir Chris Husbands, renowned academic and university leader, as he explores the impact of artificial intelligence on vocational and higher education. This episode delves into how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, and workforce demands, with a special focus on the unique challenges and opportunities for dual sector institutions. Discover strategies for making AI-driven transformation inclusive, ensuring equity for all students, and building trust with the wider public. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of universities and the critical questions leaders must address in the age of AI.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Anthony McCosker, the Director of the Social Innovation Research Institute and Professor of Media and Communication at Swinburne University. In this episode, we explore the complexities of AI in society. Is AI truly inclusive, or are we witnessing an unprecedented digital divide? Discover how we can ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, can benefit from AI. Anthony shares his thoughts on what the next generation of graduates need to drive the future of AI in a way that promotes equity and social justice. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the intersection of technology and society.

Today's episode is digging into the ‘Hearts and Minds of Students - Learning with AI in 2025’ and will feature three Swinburne students from different disciplines sharing about their thoughts, feelings and expectations of learning with GenAI this year.

Episode 1 of Swinburne's AI in Education Podcast.

Swinburne's first AI in Education podcast deep dives into the latest advancements in AI in Higher Education, hosted by Rowena Ulbrick, Academic Director Digital Literacies. The podcast features insights from pioneers in AI research from Professor Ruth Bridgstock, Dr. Katya Pechenkina, and Dr. Jeremy Nguyen. Discover how the sector has embraced AI over the past year, the evolving challenges, and the promising potential of AI for learning. Tune in to understand how AI is being integrated into learning and teaching, aligning with industry practices, and shaping the future of education.