Generative AI-Powered Immersive Learning: Unlocking the Future of Education
Forum Chair and Presenters
Yanjie SONG, The Education University of Hong Kong
Ping LI, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Ping LI, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Ben Chan, The Hong Kong Science and Technology University
Xiangen HU, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Siu Cheung Kong, The Education University of Hong Kong
Yanjie SONG, The Education University of Hong Kong
Abstract
The Forum aims to explore the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) with immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR) and multi-agent systems to revolutionize educational practices. This Forum will bring together educators, technologists, and researchers to discuss the potential of generative AI-driven immersive learning environments and multi-agent systems in enhancing student engagement, personalised learning, and learning outcomes.
The Forum discusses the latest advancements in generative AI, multi-agent systems and immersive technologies, including practical applications and case studies demonstrating their impact on education. Key topics include embodied language learning adopting cognitive neuroscience approaches in immersive environments underpinned by current neurocomputational theories, AI-powered adaptive learning systems, human-AI interactions in immersive learning environment, and multi-agent systems for immersive learning.
By fostering collaboration and innovation, this Forum seeks to empower educators to harness the power of AI and immersive technologies to create dynamic, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences, and highlight the transformative potential of these technologies in education.
Bios of Panelists
Professor Ping LI
Ping Li is Sin Wai Kin Professor in Humanities and Technology, Chair Professor of Neurolinguistics and Bilingual Studies, and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He was previously Professor of Psychology, Linguistics, and Information Sciences at the Pennsylvania State University, and served as Program Director of Cognitive Neuroscience and Perception, Action, and Cognition programs at the U.S. National Science Foundation. Li’s research is focused on investigating the neurocognitive and computational bases of language acquisition, bilingualism, and reading comprehension. He uses cognitive neuroscience approaches and immersive technologies to study the neuroplasticity and individual differences in both children and adults, aiming at understanding the relationships among language, culture, technology, and the brain. Li is currently Editor-in-Chief of Brain and Language and Senior Editor of Cognitive Science. He was President of the Society for Computation in Psychology, and is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Psychonomic Society, and the Cognitive Science Society.
Dr Ben, Y. B. CHAN
Dr. Ben, Y. B. Chan is currently the Associate Dean of Students, an Associate Professor in Engineering Education at The Hong Kong Science and Technology University and the immediate past director of the University’s Center for Engineering Education Innovation. Ben has worked extensively in Engineering Education related areas, including academic advising, experiential learning and teaching pedagogies development. Ben has been the recipient of numerous teaching excellence awards during his almost decade-long teaching at the University, including the finalist of the QS Reimagine Education Award 2018 (Global) organized by Wharton School QS Reimagine Education Award Committee; School of Engineering Teaching Excellence Appreciation Award in 2016, 2020 & 2024; the Common Core Teaching Excellence Award 2016, 2023 - Honorary Mention, the 2024 UGC Teaching Award, etc. He accumulated over HK$20M education related grants as a PI and has over 50 journal and conference papers published, his works in recent years mainly focus on the application of emerging technologies such as Generative AI and Metaverse to enhance student's design thinking process.
Prof Xiangen HU
Professor Xiangen Hu is the Director of the Institute for Higher Education Research and Development (IHERD) and the Educational Research Centre (ERC) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), where he also serves as the Chair Professor of Learning Sciences and Technologies. He earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Applied Mathematics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 1982 and 1985, respectively, followed by a Master's in Social Sciences and a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, in 1991 and 1993. Prof. Hu's research encompasses mathematical psychology, research design and statistics, and cognitive psychology. He has secured significant research grants from various funding agencies, including the US National Science Foundation and the US Office of Naval Research. His VCAEST project enhances civilian-military medical communication during disasters. It integrates a virtual environment with AutoTutor LITE, a web-based Intelligent Tutoring System, to provide real-time feedback and facilitate learning.
Professor Siu Cheung KONG
Professor KONG Siu Cheung is currently a Research Chair Professor at the Department of Mathematics and Information Technology (MIT) and Director of the Artificial Intelligence and Digital Competency Education Centre (AIDCEC) at The Education University of Hong Kong. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the international journal Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning (RPTEL) and Journal of Computers in Education (JCE). He is on the Stanford Top 2% Scientist in Education list from 2019 to 2024. Professor Kong is leading projects on Artificial Intelligence Literacy education for primary, secondary and university students, teachers, parents, and administrative staff in Hong Kong from 2020 to 2026. He is the programme leader of the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence for Executive Professionals [MSc(AIEP)] programme at the Education University of Hong Kong.
Professor Yanjie SONG
Professor Song Yanjie is Associate Director of the Centre for Immersive Learning and Metaverse in Education (CILME) and the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT). Her research focuses on AR, VR, AI, and the metaverse in education. She has led her team in developing award-winning applications like ‘VocabGo’, ‘m-Orchestrate’, and the metaverse platform ‘Learningverse’ which is further being developed into LearningverseVR with VR and generative AI. Her team holds several patents and has secured competitive research grants. She was among the top 2% in the Stanford list of the world’s most-cited scientists in education in recent years.