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Message from the President - President Suwithida Charungkaittikul

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Editorial - Dorothy Lucardie and Leslie Cordie

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Articles:

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Section 1 - The Double-Edged Sword of Generative AI 

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Generative AI and the Information Ecosystem: Implications for Adult Education 

​Lilian H. Hill, Simone C. O. Conceição

Abstract

Generative AI is transforming work, learning, and communication, producing human-like outputs that lower barriers to content creation while amplifying misinformation, bias, and inequity. Adult education can harness these tools to enhance creativity, critical thinking, and accessibility. Integrating AI literacy, ethical engagement, and digital equity enables learners to navigate and use AI responsibly.   

Key Words: generative artificial intelligence (Generative AI), information ecosystem, adult education

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Empowering Adult Learners Through Critical AI Literacy
Ana Lelescu

Abstract

As Generative AI (GenAI) integrates into daily life, adult learners face challenges in balancing education, work, and family while navigating digital inequities and algorithmic biases. This article examines critical AI literacy as an essential component of lifelong learning, exploring emerging pedagogical approaches that empower adults to question, analyse, and engage responsibly with AI technologies.

Keywords: artificial intelligence, AI literacy, lifelong learning

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De-skill or re-skill: How is AI Reshaping the Instructional Design Profession?

Linnea M. Haren Conely

Abstract

This essay reflects on my experience using various AI tools to design and develop training and e-learning for adult learners, and how it is and is not changing my identity as an instructional designer. I offer guidance for other instructional designers on how to keep our profession relevant.   

Keywords: AI, instructional design, deskilling, upskilling, reskilling

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Section 2 -  Redefining the Human-AI Partnership

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The Singularity of Education: How Artificial Intelligence Reframes Teaching and Learning
Jiahao Liang

Abstract

In 2005, Ray Kurzweil published The Singularity Is Near. As many of his predictions unfold twenty years later, this paper revisits his six epochs theory, focusing on the shift from Epoch 4 to Epoch 5—a transitional period toward the Singularity—and explores how teaching and learning might evolve with artificial intelligence.

Keywords: singularity, Epoch 5, educational shift, entropy

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The Role of Adult Educators in the AI Landscape

Sarah-Maria Rotschnig, Christian Peter Fritz, Agnes Turner

Abstract

This conceptual paper examines how adult educators can evolve their roles in a generative AI context. Building on the Erasmus+ project "wrAIte," it highlights AI-assisted creative writing as a means to foster digital literacy, ethical awareness, and innovative pedagogy. The paper connects theoretical insights with practical experiences to support inclusive and transformative adult education in an AI-driven world.

​Keywords: creative writing, artificial intelligence, adult education, learning

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The New Paradigm of Human-Machine Collaboration

 Liyue Dong

Abstract

In China’s adult education, Generative AI is shifting teachers from lecturers to "learning navigators." While AI handles content generation and data analysis, teachers provide essential emotional support, ethical guidance, and contextual design. This human-AI collaboration requires a new competency framework centered on technological integration and human-centric facilitation.

Keywords: adult education, artificial intelligence, teacher role, human-AI collaboration, China

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From Curiosity to Cognitive Partnership: Adult Learners’ Adaptation to AI Agents 

David Stein, Zilong Pan

Abstract

​This qualitative inquiry examined adult learners’ initial interactions with AI agents in a module on social change. Three themes emerged: AI as a cognitive partner, negotiation between neutrality and advocacy, and human-AI differences in dialogue quality. Participants valued AI’s immediacy and coherence but noted its lack of emotional depth and lived experience

Keywords: adult learning, artificial intelligence, technology support, technology adoption

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​​​​​To Memorise or Not to Memorise

Khau Huu Phuoc

Abstract

AI provides efficient data retrieval, but human memory remains essential for wisdom and critical thinking. Unlike algorithmic processing, human internalization fosters the conceptual frameworks necessary for empathy and creativity. Education must not discard memorization but redefine it as cultivating meaning, ensuring internal understanding continues to drive human progress and moral responsibility.

Keywords: wisdom vs. data, cognitive development, conceptional framework

 

 

Section 3 -  The Call for Critical and Equitable AI Literacy

 

Beyond Basic Use: Fostering Critical and Ethical AI Literacy Among Adult Learners

Carmelita A. Orias

Abstract

The sudden growth of AI demands a shift in adult education from mere functional knowledge to high-level AI literacy. However, it is important that critical thinking and ethical reasoning be emphasized to address AI’s biases, social implications and data privacy. Adult education should foster an informed citizenry to be able to critically assess and responsibly shape future AI technologies.

Keywords: high-level AI literacy, ethical reasoning, algorithmic bias, socio-technical phenomenon

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Embracing Artificial Intelligence and Self-Directed Learning for Older Adults

Thomas Kuan

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Abstract

This paper addresses older adults' artificial intelligence (AI) anxiety and digital literacy needs. It suggests a Self-Directed Learning (SDL) approach to learning; synthesizing Western autonomy models with Eastern philosophical wisdom (I-Ching). This approach empowers older adults to embrace AI as a trusted, transformative partner.

Keywords: artificial intelligence, self-directed learning, I-Ching

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Gender Bias in AI-Supported Informal Learning: Risks and Opportunities 

Minghan Gao

Abstract

AI-assisted adult learning may perpetuate gender stereotypes via biased data and design. This study contends that educators must cultivate critical AI literacy to enable learners to identify and contest biases, therefore ensuring AI serves as a mechanism for equity rather than inequity.

Keywords: artificial intelligence (AI), adult learning, gender stereotypes, AI literacy, equity, technology and education

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Artificial Intelligence Certificates for Adult Learners: An Equity-Focused Exploration

Yilun Jiang, Sanfeng Miao

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) certificates are expanding across higher education institutions, preparing adult learners with AI-related skills for career advancement. Adopting an equity-focused lens, we examine the purposes and target audiences of these programs and identify equity concerns related to affordability, expectations for prerequisite knowledge, and visibility of certificates across institutions. We conclude by offering recommendations to enhance inclusivity and equitable learning opportunities for adult learners.

​​Keywords: artificial intelligence, adult learner, certificate, equity

 

 

Section 4 -  AI for the Educator’s Well-Being

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AI and Well-Being for Rural Educators

 Phyllis Broughton, Crisianee Berry, Xi Lin

Abstract

This study explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can support educator well-being in rural schools using data collected through professional development sessions, surveys, and interviews.  Findings suggest that AI tools may reduce burnout, support work-life balance, streamline workloads, and enhance job satisfaction for rural educators. 

Keywords: artificial Intelligence, educator well-being, rural education, professional development, burnout

 

Evidence from the Frontlines: How Generative AI is Transforming Faculty Development

and Learner Agency in Medical Education

Neria Sebastien

Abstract

Generative AI tools are redefining medical education by transforming faculty development, learner agency, and institutional equity. Drawing on empirical studies and practice-based insights, this article examines how faculty communities of practice, differentiated AI literacy frameworks, and evidence-informed design strategies can foster ethical, equitable, and sustainable AI integration across medical education systems.

Keywords: generative artificial intelligence, faculty development, medical education

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The Implications of an ‘Optimal Lifelong Learning’ Perspective 

Cameron Richards

Abstract

​Many people worry about the naively enthusiastic projections of an ‘AI revolution’ – and how this might further demoralize global education and society. Others see valid uses of AI as another ‘technological tool’. Needed is the framework of a balanced perspective which might provide an ‘antidote’ to the threats of future misuse.

​​Keywords: AI as technological tool, future knowledge, human lifecycle learning, optimal lifelong learning from experience, reflection and ‘inner wisdom’

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Democratising the Scholarship of AI: Student Voices and the Way Ahead

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Colette February

Abstract

This contribution seeks to explore AI’s relevance in serving educational spaces and communities in ways that are innovative, inclusive and accessible. The role that students may play in achieving this is highlighted.

Keywords: AI scholarship, democracy, student voice

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Report from an Asia-Pacific Think Tank Meeting

Uwe Gartenschlaeger

Abstract

This Digitalization and AI create drivers new challenging for the ALE community. An Asia-Pacific Think-Tank meeting attempted to identify allies and priorities actions for our community.

Keywords: AI, digitalization, ALE

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Book Announcement:

Navigating the AI Frontier in Adult Education:
International Practices and Perspectives from Adult Learning, Training and Higher Education

Edited by Zan Chen, Leslie Cordie, Hannes Schröter and Xiadong Zeng

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This is a new book that ​examines AI at an international level. The edited book is a highly

collaborative effort, drawing insights from a global survey of educators using Davis’s

Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), conducted between June and October 2024, which

gathered almost 2000 responses from 36 countries. The project involved 41 researchers

from 22 countries. The book reveals how AI is changing adult learning and offers concrete

insights to prepare for an AI-driven future for adult learners.

                                      

 

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