Wycombe Abbey Pupils Explore Future of Tech at the GSA Human and Artificial Intelligence Conference
13 November 2024 - Academic
To learn more about artificial intelligence (AI), a group of nine UIV pupils set off to The Abbey School in Reading, accompanied by Mr Doherty and Mr Wilson, to attend the Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence Conference run by the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA). This unique event brought together leading experts in AI, offering our pupils a fantastic opportunity to learn about the latest developments in technology and its impact on society. The day was filled with engaging talks and hands-on workshops, sparking curiosity and inspiring thought-provoking conversations among the attendees.
The day commenced with an enlightening keynote speech by Sally Sfeir-Tait, CEO and Co-Founder of RegulAItion. Sally’s presentation delved into AI’s incredible advancements and potential, exploring how artificial intelligence is already being integrated into our everyday lives, from digital assistants to complex data analysis. Sally touched on the ethical considerations of AI, highlighting the need for responsible and thoughtful development. She emphasised that although AI holds great promise, it also demands careful oversight to ensure it benefits society in a fair and sustainable manner. This talk left the pupils with a clear understanding of AI’s possibilities and the responsibility that comes with its use.
Following the keynote, the girls attended various workshops, each shedding light on a different aspect of human or artificial intelligence. A highlight of the day was the workshop ‘The Power of Memory’ which celebrated the extraordinary capabilities of human memory rather than focusing on AI’s memory functions. This session aimed to deepen pupils’ understanding of how our brains retain and process information, building a foundation of cognitive science principles that influence learning and recall.
In another engaging session on ‘Sustainability and AI’, pupils explored the role of AI in creating a greener future. The workshop presented real-world examples of how AI is being used to tackle environmental issues, such as optimising energy usage, reducing waste, and enhancing resource management. The pupils were especially inspired by how AI can contribute to sustainable practices, understanding that technology can be a powerful tool in addressing global challenges. This session sparked discussions on how they, too, can contribute to sustainability in their everyday lives and potentially through future careers in technology.
The conference concluded with a delightful Plenary: Fun Memory Challenge led by the Headteacher of The Abbey School, Mr Le Fleming. This lively session invited pupils to put their memory skills to the test through a series of engaging challenges. The activity created a friendly, competitive atmosphere where pupils could apply the techniques learned earlier. It was not only entertaining but also served as a powerful reminder of the capability of human memory and the fun of cultivating it.
Overall, the pupils returned from the conference with new knowledge, enthusiasm, and a deeper appreciation for the potential of AI. The event succeeded in not only broadening their perspectives but also empowering them with practical skills and ethical insights. This experience highlighted the importance of lifelong learning in an ever-evolving digital landscape, and our pupils are already looking forward to future opportunities to explore the world of technology further.
Mr John Doherty
Director of Digital Learning