Communities of Practice: Shaping Higher Education in the Age of AI

The British University Vietnam recently hosted the Communities of Practice: Global Trends and Innovations in Higher Education (COPS 2025), an event that brought together academics, researchers, and students from Vietnam and other countries. The symposium served as a key forum for sharing experiences, showcasing new initiatives, and discussing the latest trends in higher education. 

Fostering a Community of Innovation 

Dr Sasha Goodwin, Head of the Centre for Academic Development at BUV, opened the symposium by highlighting the importance of collaboration. “Education isn’t a lonely journey,” she said, “it’s a team effort where ideas and experiences are shared, and where a sense of community fuels change.” This collaborative spirit was the central theme of the event, which celebrated the concept of a “community of practice and innovation.” 

Over two days, more than 40 papers were presented, covering a wide range of topics from technology integration and new teaching methods to the ethical questions surrounding the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Other subjects included innovative student assessment, peer support models, and integrating sustainability into curricula. The event was held in a hybrid format, allowing participants from Vietnam, Singapore, India, the UK, and other countries to join both in person at BUV and online. 

Adapting to AI and New Teaching Methods 

A major focus of COPS 2025 was how higher education is responding to the rise of AI. Dr Subashini K Rajanthran from the University of Arts, Singapore, argued that AI should be more than just a tool. She emphasised, “AI must become part of the curriculum itself, where students at every level can engage with, discuss, and challenge the results it provides.” 

Professor Rick Bennett, BUV’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, drew a parallel to the 1990s, when many academics viewed the internet as a form of “cheating.” Today, he noted, no one can work without email or online research. He suggested that education must adopt a similar forward-thinking approach to AI to prepare students for future jobs and to fully grasp technology’s long-term role in teaching.  

Beyond AI, the symposium also showcased a variety of innovative teaching methods. Dr Goodwin led an Active Learning Workshop, giving academics and students a chance to experience a dynamic classroom that encourages discussion and self-assessment. Meanwhile, Lecturer Brent Snider led a Problem-Based Learning Workshop, which focused on using real-world scenarios to develop problem-solving skills. 

Students at the Centre 

COPS 2025 was not just for researchers; it also placed students at the heart of the proceedings. A highlight was the inter-university debate competition between students from BUV and the University of Education. Teams debated social issues and educational trends, showcasing the confidence and critical thinking of the younger generation. 

COPS 2025 Convenor Dr Jyotsna GB said that COPs was planned with the intent of bringing global academicians and researchers on a common platform for sharing innovative trends in teaching and learning for an impactful change. The two days event was a celebration of best teaching practices across the globe thought paper presentation sessions, engaging workshops and debates. 

The symposium concluded with an awards ceremony honouring outstanding research and teaching practices. The organisers extended their gratitude to all speakers and session chairs – Dr Valentina Viduto, Dr Donie Jardeleza, and Dr Viju Prakash – as well as the convenors, Dr Jyotsna GB, Dr Sasha Goodwin, and Dr Anchit Bijalwan, for their crucial contributions to the event’s success. 

COPS 2025 successfully fostered meaningful learning and sharing. It not only connected academics, students, and universities from across the globe but also paved the way for continued growth of these “communities of practice.” For BUV, the event was a significant step towards promoting practical and sustainable innovation in teaching and learning, aligned with the rapid pace of the global economy and technology.