The 2025 CEDHE Forum brought together educators, students, and professionals for a virtual day of insights and discussion on the theme “Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Environmental Education: Innovations and Opportunities.”
The event opened with a keynote presentation from Professor Derek France (University of Chester) and Dr Sonja Rewhorn (Open University), who explored the transformative potential of AI in teaching and learning in Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences.
Key themes
AI in Teaching and Assessment
Representatives from Manchester Metropolitan University, UWE Bristol, and the University of Stirling shared approaches to embedding AI in curriculum design, staff development, and assessment practices. Case studies illustrated frameworks for ethical AI use and research into staff and student perceptions. All of the presentations are available to watch on the IES YouTube channel, please see below to catch-up on specific sessions from the day.
- Approaches to AI at Manchester Metropolitan University, Graham Smith and Dr Rachel Dunk
- Exploring student and staff perceptions of opportunities and challenges associated with Generative AI, Dr Maria Casado-Diaz
- Implementing a Clear AI-use Framework for Assessments: A Case Study, Dr Viktoria Mileva
AI in the Field
Speakers from the University of Birmingham and University of Portsmouth explored AI’s growing role in fieldwork - from enhancing data collection and interpretation to tackling training gaps and practical implementation challenges. Participants then took part in breakout discussions, sharing ideas and experiences. All of the presentations are available to watch on the IES YouTube channel, please see below to catch-up on specific sessions from the day.
- Using AI in fieldwork: staff awareness, experiences and challenges, Dr Lesley Batty
- Using AI in the field, Dr Ian Hendy
The Student Voice
The IES Student Ambassadors led a thought-provoking session on the ethical and equitable use of AI from a student perspective. The session explored accessibility, cultural differences, academic integrity, and how AI can empower students when used responsibly. You can catch-up on this session on the IES YouTube channel.
AI in the Professional Workplace
Industry leaders from Ramboll and Arup discussed the evolving demands of the environmental sector and how AI is transforming roles in data science and air quality. The session offered valuable insights into the rapid enhancement of technology and the subsequent skills demand from incoming graduates. You can catch-up on this session on the IES YouTube channel.
Building on the momentum and areas of discussion from the Forum, CEDHE hopes to continue to support its community in navigating the evolving role of AI in environmental education. Explore more about CEDHE.
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