Learning Café
Higher Education Without Teachers? Re-imagining Learning in an AI-Supported, Low-Cost Future
Date Friday, Dec 5 Time – Room: Bellevue
Many believe that education will always require a human touch—that a teacher must remain “in the loop.” Few dare to challenge that assumption. But what if we did?
In this provocative workshop, you’ll be invited to take on the role of devil’s advocate and explore an unthinkable scenario: designing a learning experience that operates entirely without teacher involvement. No lectures. No tutors. No supervision.
Set against the backdrop of a severe funding crisis, the challenge is to reimagine how students might still achieve meaningful outcomes—using only structured materials, peer support, and basic AI tools.
Whether you're sceptical or intrigued, this session will push you to see higher education through a different lens—less biased, less sentimental, and perhaps more open to what the future might actually demand.
Brian Mulligan
Consultant , Universal Learning Systems
Brian Mulligan is a leading expert in learning technologies, with a career spanning three decades in shaping digital education in Ireland. As the founder of the Irish Learning Technology Association in 2002, he has played a pivotal role in advancing the field. At Atlantic Technological University, he spearheaded the development of online distance learning, driving innovation in accessible education. Now a consultant with Universal Learning Systems (ulsystems.com), Brian specialises in the strategic application of learning technologies to transform education and expand opportunities for learners worldwide.
Links
Paul Bacsich
CEO / Consultant, Matic Media Ltd
Paul Bacsich is a consultant in online learning (e-learning, including distance learning) with 30 years experience. He covers both post-secondary and schools-level sectors with a focus on virtual universities, with particular current interest in open educational resources (OER) and public-private business models for providers – and also virtual schools and virtual colleges. Full details here: https://bacsich.org/about/