Faculty members cite role of teachers toward global sustainability

Faculty members from the Institute of Education represented Far Eastern University at the 1st “Advancing AI Research and Innovation for Global Sustainability” international conference at Sarasas Suvarnabhumi Institute of Technology last Oct. 10 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Maria Sofia Santiago-Jimenez, along with her co-authors Samantha Mae Fabellon, John Allenber Genese, and Abdul Haiy Sali, presented their research on “Teacher Agency on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in HEI Filipino Teachers’ Instructional Decisions,” which highlighted the role of educators in shaping responsible and effective AI integration in higher education settings, emphasizing how teacher empowerment drives meaningful innovation in the digital age.

Maria Sofia Santiago-Jimenez takes her turn at the conference.

“Our ongoing research on AI and teacher agency reflects these same values. Beyond staying current with innovations, it emphasizes the importance of preserving the teacher’s voice and presence in the learning process. Ultimately, whether through partnerships or in our daily teaching, we aim to keep our humanness at the heart of education,” said Santiago-Jimenez.

Among the event’s highlights were the plenary sessions by Prof. Angel Mei Lin and Prof. John Erni from the Education University of Hong Kong, both of whom offered thought-provoking perspectives on the transformative role of AI in learning and knowledge production.

The conference served as a dynamic platform for scholars and educators from Thailand, Indonesia, India, Myanmar, Australia, and the Philippines to exchange insights on the intersection of technology, education, and sustainable development.