OEB as a Moment of Calm: Eye of the Storm

As educators, we often find ourselves amidst a whirlwind of change, where centuries of traditional learning intersect with emerging paradigms. To thrive in this “eye of the storm,” it is essential to leverage moments of calm — no matter how brief — to refocus, realign, and chart bold new paths beyond the turbulence. At the core of this transformation is the courage to adopt an experimental mindset, where both triumphs and setbacks serve as vital learning experiences. We seek to find ways to pilot innovative approaches, using real-world feedback and refinement as our compass.

Breaking Through Like Early Aviation

Just as the pioneers of flight realized that progress required letting go of flapping wings in favour of fixed-wing aircraft, we too must rethink traditional educational models. By shifting our approach and embracing transformative learning environments, we can elevate education to new heights. Innovation and experimentation are key to breaking free from the limits of past paradigms, helping us soar into the future of learning.

Creative Swiping: Innovating by Borrowing

The concept of “creative swiping” invites us to adapt successful ideas from other contexts, refining them to meet our unique challenges and aspirations. This approach accelerates innovation, reduces risks, and fosters experimentation based on proven successes.

Like many of you, when I attend conferences and listen to speakers, I often find myself inspired. I jot down ideas to ‘swipe,’ and this sparks even more creativity. But I also make a conscious effort to quiet my mind and remain in a state of flow. 😉

Reflecting on OEB’s Journey

For 30 years, the OEB Conference has played a pivotal role in the educational landscape, parallelling the rise of ‘learning technologies’ in universities and colleges. As I take a moment to reflect on this journey amidst the daily turbulence, I’m reminded of how crucial it is to look back to propel ourselves forward.

Looking Ahead: The Leaders of Tomorrow

But what about the visionary leaders who have already glanced beyond the horizon? These individuals bring real-world experiences, trials, and stories of transformation. I am thrilled to announce that several of these trailblazers will join us on Friday, November 29, for the morning ‘Academic’ Plenary.

Kyle Bowen, the Enterprise Deputy CIO at Arizona State University, plays a pivotal role in shaping the technological landscape for his community. With a forward-thinking approach, Kyle focuses on leveraging technology—including AI—to enhance learning, work, and engagement. His journey emphasizes the importance of collaboration across institutional boundaries, advancing faculty professional development, and fostering learner creativity through data science initiatives.

Dr. Maribell Reyes-Millán, Director of Digital Education at Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico), brings a wealth of expertise honed through both crises and opportunities. Her leadership during the 2017 Mexico City earthquake and the global pandemic in 2020 will offer invaluable insights into strategic frameworks and innovative solutions that have transformed digital learning at her institution.

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Aston University (UK), will share the significant strides made during his two-year tenure. As a passionate advocate for inclusive, impact-oriented education, Aleks has led strategic initiatives that are reshaping the educational experience at Aston, focusing on socio-economic transformation and social mobility. His commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments exemplifies how effective leadership can build a thriving academic and stakeholder community.

Swiping across the horizon

These three trailblazers are not only leaders in their fields but are also actively contributing to the reshaping of higher education. Their commitment to driving transformative change at the enterprise level illustrates how emerging technologies can revolutionize student experiences. And as they share their journeys, perhaps we can ‘swipe’ some of their insights—and ask them how they stay calm and focused amidst their own turbulent environments!

Written for OEB Global 2024 by Gilly Salmon.

Gilly Salmon is a celebrated education innovator, known for her significant contributions to online and blended learning research, developments and practice. She has led initiatives that have revolutionised digital learning strategies, particularly through her Carpe Diem Learning Design methodology, the 5 stage model of learning and e-tivities. Gilly continues to influence educators globally with her visionary work.