Kraków, Poland – The 2024 edition of the Una Europa Staff Week brought together professional services staff from Una Europa universities for a dynamic program aimed at navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education in the digital era. Hosted by the Jagiellonian University, the event offered an engaging blend of workshops, lectures, networking opportunities, and cultural immersion, empowering participants with tools and insights to tackle the challenges of digital transformation.
Day Two: Rethinking Knowledge in the AI Era
Marta Materska-Samek, a member of the PM Task Force, contributed as a panellist in the session “Future of Digital Management of European Universities.” Her presentation sparked thought-provoking discussions on the role of AI as a repository of wisdom and knowledge. Materska-Samek explored how artificial intelligence processes and preserves information, questioning its capacity to complement or challenge traditional forms of academic knowledge management.
Final Day: AI as a Catalyst for Creativity
The concluding day featured Żaneta Żegleń, IMPULSE Project Coordinator, who delivered a compelling workshop titled “Feed Me or Kill Me: AI in Creativity Stimulation.” This interactive session invited participants to reflect on the transformative impact of AI on human creativity. Żegleń introduced practical tools and methodologies to harness AI for enhancing creative processes, while also addressing the delicate balance between human ingenuity and machine-assisted inspiration.
Shared Learning and Practical Solutions
A highlight of the Staff Week was the session “From Stories to Solutions,” which provided an open forum for participants to share their experiences with AI technologies. Discussions covered critical topics such as the risks and opportunities of AI in higher education, the ethical and legal frameworks surrounding its use, and strategies for incorporating AI tools to improve efficiency and governance within academic institutions.
Cultural Immersion and Collaboration
Beyond the formal program, attendees had the chance to explore Kraków’s rich cultural heritage and engage with Polish language and traditions. Evening events included visits to historical landmarks and informal networking sessions, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and cross-cultural understanding among the participants.
Building a Community of Practice
The Una Europa Staff Week resonated with the principles of the IMPULSE Project’s Community of Practice, emphasizing collaboration, shared knowledge, and AI-driven innovation. The guidance from AI specialists and educators enriched participants’ understanding of how AI can shape the future of European universities while addressing operational and ethical challenges.
The Una Europa Staff Week underscored the power of international collaboration in addressing complex issues in higher education, setting a robust foundation for future initiatives in digital transformation and AI integration.For more details, visit the full article here.
