How AI is Reshaping Education with Prof. Alastair Beresford from the University of Cambridge

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In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Raoul sits down with Prof. Alastair Beresford, Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Cambridge, to discuss how AI is transforming education. They explore the benefits and challenges of AI-generated feedback for students, the future of coding in an AI-assisted world, and the critical skills learners need to succeed in the next decade.

Prof. Alastair shares insights on the ICAP framework for measuring student engagement, the importance of asking the right questions, and the balance between teaching fundamentals vs. relying on automation. The conversation also touches on how universities can adapt assessments to ensure students truly understand the material, rather than just accepting AI-generated answers at face value.

If you're interested in how AI is shaping the future of learning and work, this episode is a must-listen!

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Chapter Markers

(00:00) Guest introduction: Prof. Alastair Beresford, University of Cambridge

(03:30) How AI helps students learn faster with personalised feedback

(14:45) The Downsides & Challenges of AI in Learning

(16:57) The Future of Coding in an AI World

(18:00) The Calculator Analogy: Learning vs. Automation

(22:00) Why “asking the right question” is a critical skill in an AI-driven world

(24:00) AI & The Future of Education

(28:00) Quick Fire Questions

(30:00) Raoul’s Reflections

Useful Links

Connect with Prof. Alastair’s on LinkedIn

Find out more about GitHub Copilot: AI-assisted coding

Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com