Serang, (15-08-2023) – International Office of Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa held The International Guest Lecture presenting distinguished educators and lecturers, Dr. David Wicks, Associate Professor of Curriculum & Instruction at Seattle Pacific University, and Dr. Ira Rasikawati, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences and Assistant Professor in the Department of English at Universitas Kristen Krida Wacana (UKRIDA), Jakarta. Dr. Udi Samanhudi, as the Head of International Office of Untirta gave opening remarks and delivered the purposes of Internationalization in Higher Education especially in Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa. He stated about this event could be increase of the research and academics.
Dr. David Wicks and Dr. Ira Rasikawati were delivered in a groundbreaking international guest lecture on “Digital Education Leadership.” This lecture aims to shed light on innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the digital age.The event explored pivotal topics such as enhancing teaching presence using generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a Teaching Assistant, and online learning best practices grounded in the COI (Community Of Inquiry) framework. Dr. Wicks and Dr. Rasikawati explained into the challenges and opportunities of incorporating AI-driven solutions into education and discuss strategies for fostering effective online learning experiences.
Enhancing Teaching Presence Using AI: Dr. David Wicks discussed the role of generative AI as a Teaching Assistant in modern education. He explained how AI can assist teachers in tasks such as organizing assignments, providing instant answers, offering personalized feedback, and facilitating dynamic interactions. The lecture addressed both the potential benefits and limitations of AI technology, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced approach.
Online Learning Best Practices: Dr. Ira Rasikawati elaborated on the Community Of Inquiry (COI) framework and its application in online learning environments. She highlighted the significance of social presence, teaching presence, and cognitive presence in fostering engaging and effective online learning experiences. The lecture drew insights from student perspectives, emphasizing flexibility, interaction, diverse learning aids, clear feedback, and the vital role of educators in student success.
Both scholars examined the implications of their findings for teaching and research, emphasizing practical application, reflective practice, authentic assessments, and collaboration facilitation. They addressed the positive impact of such educational strategies on student perceptions, real-life application of knowledge, and the challenges educators might face. The hundreds of participants were from students and lecturers of Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa and their enthusiasm to participate from beginning until the end of international guest lecture.
