by:Jenny Méité on: December 20, 2024This year marked the very first participation of my colleague Bérénice Grossir at Online Educa Berlin (OEB), my third, UbiCast’s tenth, and the thirtieth edition of this prestigious Cross-Sector Conference. The event brought together participants from over 70 countries and 2,500 attendees, creating a dynamic space to explore the future of learning and development!
A notable evolution in discussions
Over the past three years, I’ve observed a significant evolution in the themes discussed at the conference. Conversations have shifted from exploring digital tools to deeply reflecting on their ethical and societal impacts.
One striking example of this transformation was the interactive quiz presented by Donald H. Taylor, Chairman of the Learning and Performance Institute in the UK, during the opening session. The question posed was: How would you describe learning in 2025 in one word? The majority responses - unsurprisingly - were “AI” and “Transformation.” However, what struck me most were the words suggested by the audience before the quiz results were revealed: “Humanity,” “Hard work,” and “Together.” This contrast highlights the diversity of perspectives on the future of education.
A vision of balanced progress
Among the most inspiring speakers, Gerd Leonhard, futurist and author, shared a nuanced vision of AI’s impact on education. According to him, AI represents a powerful tool to personalise learning paths and enhance human capacities.
However, he warned against over-dependence on technology. For Leonhard, the future of education lies in striking a balance between leveraging AI and emphasizing essential human skills like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. He also stressed the importance of protecting student data and adopting an ethical approach to integrating technology.
My key takeaways from OEB2024
Here are the main points I took away from this enriching event:
1. Increased Demand for Flexible Learning
Students are increasingly seeking personalised, anytime-anywhere learning experiences. Hybrid and online learning models are here to stay, paving the way for ed-tech solutions that cater to diverse preferences.
2. AI Revolutionising Education
AI is transforming pedagogy by enabling tailored learning pathways, real-time feedback, and AI-driven content creation.
3. Workforce Skills & Alternative Credentials
With a growing focus on skills-based learning, institutions are incorporating microcredentials and certifications to align with workforce demands.
4. Sustainability and Green Skills
Rising demand for sustainability education and green skills is pushing institutions to integrate these themes into their curricula. The education sector’s commitment to sustainability is driving opportunities for eco-friendly initiatives.
5. Cybersecurity & Data Privacy
As digital learning expands, so do concerns about cybersecurity and data privacy. Institutions must adopt secure, compliant platforms to safeguard student data.
Conclusion: Education in transformation
Online Educa Berlin 2024 highlighted the delicate balance between technological innovation and fundamental human values in education. While AI and digital solutions open exciting new horizons, it remains crucial to preserve an ethical approach centered on learners' needs. The future of education depends on collaboration between technology and humanity, building a world where learning aligns with inclusion, sustainability, and security. The conversation continues… and I’m eager to see how these ideas evolve by the next edition!
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