Presentation (20 minutes) – maximum of TWO speakers per presentation TAFE Directors Australia Convention 2026

Turning the AI tide: from fear to empowerment (132073)

Victoria Griffith 1
  1. TAFE SA, Adelaide, SOUTH AUSTRALIA, Australia

The education sector is at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence (AI) disruption, and our educators are on the frontline. It is critical TAFE leads the way to support educators and students alike to confidently navigate and shape the future of learning in an AI dominated world.

TAFE SA has come a long way on its AI journey, with many lessons learned.  Initially cautious due to concerns around academic integrity, data privacy, and ethical use, TAFE SA has been purposefully transitioning to an ‘enabling’ environment for all its staff and students, positioning AI as a strategic asset that should be embraced.

Shifting from restrictive policies to proactive enablement strategies, this reflects a broader recognition that AI, when responsibly deployed, can enhance teaching, foster student engagement and set all stakeholders on a journey of preparedness for the future.

Discover how TAFE SA has been evolving its Gen AI strategy over the last 24 months, to position itself as ambassadors of good practice on the national VET stage.  This presentation will highlight learnings, and provide examples of impact, in relation to:

  • Gen AI governance
  • Policy adaptation
  • Managing academic integrity in an ‘enabling’ context
  • Management of AI ‘experiments and impact on teaching and learning
  • Bridging the AI literacy gap with staff, students and community
  • Identifying strategic positioning for the future

The critical transition from limiting to enabling AI use reflects a maturing understanding of its potential. Rather than viewing AI as a threat, TAFE is perfectly positioned to show VET can reframe it as a tool for innovation, equity, and efficiency.