AI in ASEAN Higher Education: Redefining Quality and Innovation, AUN-QA IC 2024 Session 3

The third session of the AUN-QA International Conference 2024, titled "Leveraging AI for Forward-Thinking Quality Standards in ASEAN Higher Education," brought together experts to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can redefine quality assurance in higher education across ASEAN. The session highlighted how institutions can proactively adapt to future challenges through AI integration, fostering innovation, student preparedness, and transformative educational experiences.
This session was moderated by Prof. Wan Ahmad Kamil Mahmood, PhD, Special Advisor to the AUN Executive Director, who guided the discussions with insightful questions and reflections, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the topic. 

The three distinguished speakers of this session were:

• Mr. Adam Brimo, CEO of OpenLearning Limited
• Prof. Dr. Chan Basaruddin, Vice President of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE)
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hamimah Ujir from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak.

Their discussions shone a light to the transformative potential of AI in enhancing learning systems, streamlining quality assurance processes, and addressing challenges associated with its implementation.

Advancing Global Education through Technology: Mr. Adam Brimo

Mr. Adam Brimo shared how OpenLearning, with its presence across Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and Singapore, and plans for expansion into Vietnam, the Philippines, and India, has revolutionized education for over 4 million learners globally. By partnering with over 250 educational institutions, OpenLearning emphasizes authentic learning experiences and active engagement, moving beyond traditional models of content delivery.

Key innovations on the platform include:

• Learning Management Systems (LMS): OpenLearning’s LMS is powered by generative AI, enabling active and project-based learning activities. It is designed to facilitate authentic and engaging learning experiences, going beyond conventional video lectures and quizzes.
• Digital Credentialing: Automated systems provide learners with badges and certificates, offering verified evidence of skill attainment.
• Portfolios for Lifelong Learning: A comprehensive tool that tracks and showcases achievements to employers, reflecting the platform's commitment to employability.

Mr. Adam also elaborated on the integration of generative AI in course design. OpenLearning’s AI-powered tools assist educators in creating structured learning outcomes and project-based activities using established taxonomies like Bloom’s and SOLO. This approach promotes higher-order thinking skills and active student engagement. Since its launch, these tools have enabled the creation of over 30 million words of content and nearly 3,000 courses, demonstrating their impact in regions such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia.

Generative AI in Quality Assurance: Prof. Dr. Chan Basaruddin

Prof. Dr. Chan Basaruddin explored how generative AI and information and communication technologies (ICT) can enhance quality assurance (QA) processes in higher education. He emphasized the potential of these technologies to personalize learning experiences, foster deeper engagement and understanding, improve efficiency in QA processes such as accreditation and evaluation, and drive institutional transformation to better meet educational demands.
He highlighted the unique capabilities of AI in transforming QA practices. Enhanced student assessment ensures tailored educational experiences, while increased efficiency allows for quicker and more accurate evaluations. Generative AI also encourages deeper learning outcomes by fostering higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills.
Despite its potential, Prof. Dr. Chan noted several challenges. Risks to academic integrity arise from the misuse of AI tools, such as completing assessments without genuine learning. Over-reliance on AI, often referred to as the "Google Effect," can diminish independent problem-solving capabilities. Ethical concerns also require attention to ensure responsible use of generative AI without compromising the integrity of education.
Prof. Dr. Chan discussed INQAAHE’s efforts to establish future-oriented standards for AI in QA. These include assessing digitalization readiness, such as skills and security infrastructure, and developing frameworks for ethical governance in AI adoption. Encouraging institutions to leverage AI for enhancing educational offerings is a key goal. However, these efforts must balance innovation with robust oversight to maintain trust and efficacy.
Generative AI holds transformative potential for QA in higher education. Prof. Dr. Chan emphasized that success requires addressing ethical governance, institutional readiness, and the development of clear policies to guide implementation. AI should enhance human-centric educational practices rather than replace them.

Bridging Data and AI: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hamimah Ujir

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hamimah Ujir provided a comprehensive perspective on the role of AI in enhancing quality assurance processes within higher education. She emphasized the growing integration of AI-driven technologies, such as machine learning and deep learning, into university systems, which are transforming administrative and academic functions.
Dr. Hamimah explained that AI is redefining quality assurance by streamlining data collection and reporting. This allows institutions to better analyze curriculum reviews, benchmarking reports, and feedback, ensuring that processes are more efficient and data-driven. AI-driven automation simplifies administrative tasks, such as course scheduling, by accounting for variables like student numbers, venue availability, and faculty workload. Predictive analytics enable universities to identify at-risk students and implement timely interventions to improve retention and outcomes. Additionally, AI supports personalized learning experiences and tailored faculty development programs.
She highlighted the importance of collaboration and robust governance in implementing AI for quality assurance. Developing AI systems is resource-intensive, necessitating cross-institutional partnerships to share costs and expertise. Clear policies and guidelines must address ethical concerns and ensure the responsible use of AI. Furthermore, capacity-building initiatives are vital to equip educators, administrators, and students with the necessary skills to maximize the benefits of AI.

A Vision for the Future

This session reinforced the transformative potential of AI in ASEAN higher education. By integrating AI into quality assurance processes and educational delivery, institutions can enhance learning experiences, improve operational efficiency, and anticipate future challenges. However, the speakers emphasized that success depends on ethical governance, institutional readiness, and a commitment to human-centric approaches.
The discussions set a forward-thinking tone, showcasing how ASEAN higher education can lead the way in leveraging AI for sustainable and innovative quality standards.