UMass Lowell to Host Symposium on AI's Impact on Education

UMass Lowell to Explore AI’s Impact on Education

UMass Lowell is set to host a symposium focusing on the transformative impact of AI in education, bringing together experts to discuss global trends and local classroom applications. The event, titled "AI in Education: Global Trends, Local Impact," will take place on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at Coburn Hall, offering a comprehensive exploration of how AI is reshaping educational strategies worldwide and in Massachusetts.

The symposium will follow a structured Global, State, Local model, connecting international AI developments to local educational practices. This approach aims to highlight how global innovations influence Massachusetts’ vision and implementation of AI in classrooms.

Symposium Highlights

Keynote Speaker: Russ Wilcox

Russ Wilcox, CEO of ArtifexAI and a renowned speaker at the World Economic Forum, will deliver the keynote address. Wilcox, an expert in AI policy, will discuss navigating the global AI landscape, focusing on policy, competition, and the future of education in an AI-driven world. His insights are expected to set the tone for the symposium’s discussions on AI’s role in shaping educational systems.

Panel Discussions

The event will feature two panel discussions. Panel 1 will focus on supporting education in the AI era, with participants including Grace Magley from MassCUE, and Paula Moore and Andréa (A.J.) Coté from DESE. This panel will delve into Massachusetts’ policies, infrastructure, and professional learning opportunities for educators as they adapt to AI technologies.

Panel 2 will address AI integration in schools, featuring Katherine King, Kirk Taveras, Ralph Saint Louis, Catherine Sciortino, and Greg Limperis. The discussion will center on preparing teachers for equitable AI use in K–12 education, emphasizing both pre-service and in-service training.

Networking and Engagement

The symposium will also provide opportunities for discussion, reflection, and networking among faculty, students, teachers, and community partners. Lunch will be served, fostering an environment for attendees to engage with experts and peers.

Registration and Participation

Interested participants can register online for the symposium, which promises to be a critical discussion on how global AI trends are influencing local education. The event aims to bridge the gap between international AI advancements and their practical applications in Massachusetts classrooms.