
Conference Overview
We are pleased to announce the 3rd Innovations in the Science of Teaching and Learning Conference, which will focus on artificial intelligence and student success in higher education.Learning and teaching in higher education are at a crucial turning point. This is a direct result of the transformation that artificial intelligence systems are bringing to educational practice around the world. Research studies have shown that the transformation now taking place in higher education presents the sector with both enormous potential and major constraints (Holmes et al., 2021).
The rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies has ushered in an era of upheaval in education, which scholars refer to as the fourth education revolution. This revolution includes the introduction of personalised learning environments, intelligent tutoring systems and AI-powered assessment techniques. Recent research by Roll and Wylie (2023) has found that the use of artificial intelligence in higher education requires the use of technological tools in conjunction with human skills that enable relevant learning experiences. The conference builds on AI integration frameworks for education and models of learner success in technology-enhanced learning environments to explore how educational institutions can develop AI-driven, student-centred environments that support human interaction and intellectual development. Research has shown that the use of strategic artificial intelligence leads to improved learning outcomes, particularly in the areas of personalised learning pathways (Tariq, 2024), early intervention systems (Gordanier, Hauk & Sankaran, 2019,) and flexible assessment techniques (Barua & Lockee, 2025).
The introduction of artificial intelligence raises the question of how to strengthen academic standards and maintain fairness among students while improving the understanding of AI among both staff and students. The goal of the 3rd iSOTL conference is to bring together evidence-based and collaborative research to address important concerns. By examining both established research and new findings from the field, we can create a link between theoretical ideas and their practical application. Meaningful dialogue between technologists, educators and researchers is essential to successfully navigate the revolution that is occurring in higher education.To discuss the critical convergence of education and AI, this conference will bring together academics, educators and innovators.
Thematic Strands
AI integration in teaching and learning
Data-driven student support
Quality and ethics in higher education
Global connectivity and intercultural learning
Holistic student support
Sustainable education practices
Keynote Speakers

Professor Donrich Thaldar
Full Professor of law at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban

Professor Lesley Le Grange
Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Education at Stellenbosch University

Dr Violet Makuku
Global and international Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist, Consultant, and Director

Dr Janel D. White-Taylor
Associate Director of Intelligent Learning Systems and Educational Technology Clinical Professor at Arizona State University's Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation

Dr André van Zyl
Director: Academic Development Centre at the University of Johannesburg

Dr Melissa Warr
Assistant Professor School of Teacher Preparation, Administration, and LeadershipNew Mexico State University
Competition 1: Visualising Success in Higher Education through Artificial Intelligence
Competition 2: “I MATTER” – Student Poetry Competition
Registration Process


