QMUL Hosts GenAI Workshop for Educators in Science and Engineering

Organised by the Scholarship Working Group: Teaching Pedagogy and Active Learning (GenAI and Teaching sub-group)—part of the Scholarship Centre at the School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science (EECS)—the event brought together academic staff from EECS, the Schools of Engineering and Materials Science (SEMS), Physical and Chemical Sciences (SPCS), and joint programmes in Beijing, Hainan, and Nanchang.

Led by a multidisciplinary team including Dr Habiba Akter, Bing Han, Dr Michaela MacDonald, Dr Nickos Paltalidis, Prof Michael Chai, Prof Yue Chen, Dr Laurissa Tokarchuk, and Dr Vindya Wijeratne, the workshop focused on equipping educators with the tools and knowledge to responsibly integrate GenAI into teaching practice—while maintaining academic integrity, inclusivity, and innovation.

Unlike theoretical discussions on AI in education, this workshop emphasised practical engagement, featuring real-world case studies in areas like programming, software design, network analysis, microprocessor systems, and game design. Breakout sessions encouraged participants to co-create AI-enhanced teaching tools—such as using GenAI for creative ideation or evaluating database solutions—grounded in clear learning outcomes and ethical frameworks.

“It was refreshing to explore GenAI not just as a threat to academic integrity, but as a tool for meaningful learning,” said one participant. Another added, “This workshop helped demystify GenAI and offered practical ideas I can implement in my teaching.”

Participants also addressed key themes such as AI literacy, academic rigour, and strategies for future-proofing engineering education. The collaborative atmosphere fostered cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural dialogue, especially with colleagues from QMUL’s international partnerships.

This workshop marks the first in a planned series designed to support academic staff through the rapidly evolving educational landscape shaped by GenAI.