Innovating education: TILE-TEC 2025 explores AI's role in learning and teaching
Published: 30 May 2025
TILE-TEC 2025, co-led by UESTC and the UofG, welcomed 100+ global delegates to Chengdu to explore Generative AI’s growing impact on higher education, with a spotlight on transnational education (TNE)
The 3rd annual TILE-TEC conference took place on May 16, 2025, in Chengdu, marking a milestone in the collaborative efforts between the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) and the University of Glasgow (UofG). This year’s conference saw a significant increase in both participation and abstract submissions, reflecting the growing interest in wider collaboration, digital teaching methods, and innovation in engineering and computer science education. The conference welcomed over 100 delegates from more than 25 universities worldwide, including participants from transnational education (TNE) programs, both in person and online.
Executive Chair Dr Wasim Ahmad - University of Glasgow, UK welcomes the attendees to the conference.
Focused on the transformative potential of Generative AI in higher education, attendees engaged with a dynamic program that included one keynote speech, three invited talks, and a workshop, all delivered by experts in digital teaching, AI integration, and ethical considerations surrounding emerging technologies.
Throughout the day, lively discussions highlighted how AI tools are reshaping pedagogy, enhancing student engagement, and raising new questions around academic integrity. The conference fostered an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing education in engineering and computer science.
Organisers praised the strong participation and positive feedback, underscoring the growing momentum behind the TILE-TEC initiative. With strong support from both universities and seamless coordination behind the scenes, the conference not only celebrated current successes but also laid the groundwork for TILE-TEC 2026. Planned developments include peer-reviewed full paper submissions and efforts to expand international visibility and impact.
As the educational landscape continues to evolve, TILE-TEC remains a vibrant forum for exchanging ideas, building partnerships, and driving innovation across borders. Dr Ahmad gave "a heartfelt thank you to all the organising committee, speakers, facilitators and participants for their energy, insights, and commitment to advancing global education." He told them, "your contributions made this event a true success."
Afterwards, delegates and speakers came together in a less formal setting to enjoy a beautiful al fresco evening meal at the Crowne Plaza hotel, complete with live musical entertainment.
The full conference programme, including speaker biographies, is available here: TILE TEC 2025 Final Programme
Organising Committee from University of Glasgow and University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
Patrons - Prof Muhammad Imran, Dr Robert Partridge
General Chairs - Prof Scott Roy, Prof Ce Zhu
General Co-Chairs - Prof David Young, Prof Shizhong Xu
Executive Chair - Dr Wasim Ahmad
Program Chairs - Dr Masood Ur Rehman, Prof Bo Ya, Dr Niamat Hussain.
Publication Chairs - Dr Anthony Centeno, Ms Jennifer Macdougall, Ms Chun He
Local organizing Chair: Ms Jing Yang, Ms Hong Ye
Finance Chair: Ms Sandra Hynes
First published: 30 May 2025