Coffee break 

Lunch

Coffee Break

Opening session

Plenary 1: The Role of Engineering and Computer Technology as Artificial Intelligence turns into Reality: a Challenge for Professional Education

Prof. Melany Ciampi

Abstract: Educating leaders for continuous technological change requires rethinking engineering and computing in the age of real AI. Today’s professionals must go beyond mastering technical tools; they need to understand how artificial intelligence systems are designed, deployed, evaluated, and governed in dynamic, real-world environments. This means integrating strong foundations in computer science and engineering with data literacy, ethical reasoning, systems thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Future leaders must be prepared to adapt to rapid innovation, guide responsible AI adoption, and make strategic decisions that balance technical possibilities with societal impact. By fostering curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning, educational programs can empower engineers and computing professionals to lead confidently in an era defined by continuous technological transformation. The goal is to present a detailed account of an initiative that has been carried out continuously over the past ten years, the IEEE World Engineering Education Conference - EDUNINE.

Short Bio: Melany M. Ciampi (PhD, Dr. rer nat. habil., Universitätsprofessor, Eta-Kappa-Nu, Ing. Paed. IGIP) is a renowned Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and a global leader in engineering education. She currently serves as Rector of the International Institute of Education (IIE) and holds several top international leadership positions, including President of the World Organization on System Engineering and Information Technology (WCSEIT), President of the Safety Health and Environment Research Organization (SHERO) and President of the World Organization on Communication and Arts (WCCA). She is also Vice-President of the Science and Education Research Organization (COPEC), the Fishing Museum Friends Society (AAMP), and Brazil’s National Monitoring Committee of IGIP (International Society for Engineering Education). Dr. Ciampi has been a long-standing board member of major international organizations, such as the Global Council on Manufacturing and Management (GCMM) and the Board of Governors for INTERTECH, WCSEIT, SHERO and WCCA. Her leadership has significantly shaped global collaboration in engineering and technology education. She has served in key roles within the IEEE Education Society, including Vice President for Conferences and Workshops (2022–2023), Secretary across three terms (2016–2017, 2018–2019, 2020–2021) and Member of Board of Governors (2003-2023). She was also Vice-President of IGIP (2010 2014), Co-Chair of Working Group Engineering Education in International Context (2002–2018), and President of the Brazilian Chapter of the IEEE Education Society (2002–2004). Dr. Ciampi is a member of IGIP, SEFI, ASEE, INTERTECH, and RCI (Cartagena Network of Engineering). Her many accolades include the IEEE Edwin C. Jones Jr. Meritorious Service Award 2011 and Ronald J. Schmitz Outstanding Service Award 2016, IEEE Meritorious Service Award 2018, IEEE Outstanding Recognition Award 2022, IEEE Unmatched Dedication Award 2023, IEEE Leadership in Conference Organization Award 2024, IEEE Education Society Distinguished Member Award 2024 and IEEE Excellence in Inspiration Award 2025.

IEEE Round table

Abstract: 

IEEE members representing a broad range of technological fields contribute a comprehensive and diverse overview of the rapid advancements influencing both industry and education. Each IEEE society is dedicated to addressing emerging challenges, evolving requirements, and technological innovations within its respective field. Through their extensive understanding of industry trends and educational needs, these societies play a pivotal role in advancing professional development and shaping the future direction of engineering and technology education.

This discussion convenes seven IEEE societies within Division 6, including the IEEE Education Society, to examine the significant impact of Artificial Intelligence across their domains. Panelists will analyze the transformative changes, challenges, and opportunities introduced by AI, while the Education Society will place particular emphasis on AI’s influence on teaching methodologies, learning processes, and curriculum development aimed at preparing the next generation of professionals.

By connecting industry and academia—two interdependent dimensions of technological progress—this panel provides a comprehensive global outlook on AI’s role in redefining engineering practice and education. Participants are invited to engage in a forward-looking dialogue on navigating the opportunities and complexities presented by this rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Plenary 3: What does learning mean in the Age of Generative AI?

Arnold Pears, BSc(hons), PhD.

Abstract: Use of Generative AI has profound implications for learning, assessment and human development. The act of “creating” takes on a new meaning, and the importance of aspects of learner self-regulation, meta-cognition and cognitive development for resilient higher education is undeniable. To deal with this paradigm shift in the role of “creation" in the context of the academy Universities and their Academic Staff (the professoriate) must adopt new approaches to undergraduate and research education, as well as their own research practice. What can be accelerated through the use of AI tools, and what does this mean for learning and research? To engage with these fundamental questions this plenary explores the questions of "why we learn, and why we research”. Through examining our motivation to learn, or conduct research, we can reconnect to the underlying values of education and explore how new pedagogies can sustain our love of learning.

Short Bio: Arnold Pears, BSc(hons), PhD. Is a leading international scholar of computing and engineering education. He holds an honorary doctorate from the University of Eastern Finland, and was awarded the SEFI Leonardo da Vinci Medal for outstanding and sustained contributions to Engineering Education of International significance. He is currently Professor of Engineering Education and the Head of the Department of Learning in Engineering Sciences at KTH Royal Institute of Technology. Internationally Professor Pears serves as 2025-2026 President of the IEEE Education Society, as an external advisory board member of AI development for Clarivate Analytics, and the Generation AI project at the University of Eastern Finland. Professor Pears has published extensively and his work is highly cited in the field, https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=iA8v4lAAAAAJ&hl=en&inst=3006122349567257957

Plenary 4: AI Plus/Delta: Reflecting on Teaching and Learning with and about AI

Prof. Diane Rover.

This panel session will be organized as a plus/delta assessment to discuss what is working well (plus) and what isn’t and needs improvement (delta) related to college teaching and learning with and about AI in IEEE fields of study. The panelists are members of the IEEE Education Society Board of Governors. Panelists have an array of backgrounds and experiences from different regions, disciplines, and educational settings, and they will share information and perspectives. The panel will address four aspects of a) teaching with AI, b) learning with AI, c) teaching about AI, and d) learning about AI. The aspect of “with AI” will consider how AI is being used by instructors and students to support teaching and learning. The aspect of “about AI” will consider what AI subject matter and competencies are being integrated into curricula to prepare students for their careers. During the panel session, the audience will have opportunities to engage in plus/delta discussions with panelists and with other attendees.

Short Bio: Diane Rover holds the title of University Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Iowa State University (ISU). She currently serves as the alliance director for the NSF Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska IINSPIRE LSAMP Alliance. She co-led two projects in the department previously funded by the NSF Revolutionizing Engineering Departments (RED) and Scholarships in STEM (S-STEM) programs. She was a co-PI of the NSF Center for Advancing Research Impact in Society led by the University of Missouri. Her teaching and research have focused on engineering education, high impact and inclusive educational practices, broader impacts of research, embedded computer systems, system level design, parallel and distributed systems, and performance analysis. Dr. Rover began her academic career at Michigan State University and has served in department and college administrative positions at MSU and ISU, including associate dean of engineering. She has engaged with many academic institutions and professional organizations, including community colleges, both U.S. and international universities, and various boards. She has served in various leadership roles within IEEE, ASEE and ABET. She is president-elect of the IEEE Education Society. Dr. Rover is a Fellow of the IEEE and of ASEE.

Plenary 5: Human-Centered AI in Engineering Education: From Digital Transformation to Ethical and Inclusive Innovation

Carina Soledad González González

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping engineering education, yet its transformative potential depends on how it is pedagogically, ethically, and institutionally integrated. This plenary examines AI not merely as a technological tool, but as a catalyst for redesigning learning ecosystems around human agency, inclusion, and responsibility. Drawing on research in Human-Computer Interaction, gender-inclusive design, and AI-supported learning environments, the talk will explore how generative AI, learning analytics, and intelligent systems can enhance personalization while safeguarding equity and academic integrity. Particular attention will be given to the development of AI literacy, critical digital competencies, and inclusive design frameworks aligned with Industry 5.0 principles. The session proposes a human-centered roadmap for engineering programs seeking to move beyond instrumental adoption toward meaningful, ethical, and socially responsible digital transformation.

Short Bio: Carina Soledad González González is Full Professor in Computer Architecture and Technology at the University of La Laguna (Spain). She leads the Interaction, ICT & Education (ITED) Research Group and serves as Vice President for Publications of the IEEE Education Society and Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Revista Iberoamericana de Tecnologías del Aprendizaje (IEEE-RITA). She holds two PhDs (Computer Science and Education) and has over 30 years of experience in educational technology, human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, and gender-inclusive digital innovation. She has coordinated numerous European and national research projects focused on AI in education, social robotics, computational thinking, and digital inclusion. Her work integrates human-centered design, ethical AI, and inclusive pedagogies to promote equitable and sustainable digital transformation in engineering education.