Events by Association for Learning Technology

The 2nd Annual Gender Equality, Diversity and Sustainability in Higher Education Conference hosted by the University of Aberdeen Business School provides a vital platform for academics, researchers, and non-academic practitioners to convene and explore critical modern challenges. As higher education institutions globally navigate structural transformations, this conference emphasizes actionable strategies, comprehensive evaluations, and collaborative frameworks needed to address systemic gaps. Attendees will engage with leading voices addressing pressing themes such as institutional equity, the real-world impact of accreditations, and the ongoing evolution of inclusive policies within academia. The comprehensive program features insightful keynote presentations, interactive panel discussions, and rigorous academic paper sessions highlighting empirical research and case studies. Discussions will closely examine key focus areas including the gender pay and pension gaps, intersectionality, maternity and paternity leave frameworks, and the broader integration of sustainability goals within organizational structures. Participants will gain exposure to pioneering initiatives like Athena SWAN and Advance HE programs designed to cultivate inclusive leadership pipelines and promote structural changes from the ground up. Networking remains a core pillar of the day, offering structured environments for delegates to connect with cross-sector peers, exchange best practices, and build long-term research collaborations. Whether you are an experienced researcher, a university administrator, an equality practitioner, or a policymaker dedicated to shaping a fairer academic ecosystem, this event offers invaluable insights and tools. Join us at the historic University of Aberdeen for a day of stimulating dialogue, collective problem-solving, and forward-thinking strategies aimed at accelerating meaningful institutional transformation.

Driving Innovation in Technical Ceramics and Thermal Engineering IPS Ceramics LTD is proud to announce the Advanced Ceramics And Thermal Processing Summit 2026, taking place at the historic Stoke Town Hall in Stoke-on-Trent, UK. As a global leader with decades of expertise in technical ceramics, refractory kiln furniture, and high-temperature thermal solutions, IPS Ceramics invites industry experts, materials scientists, process engineers, and manufacturing executives to gather in the heart of Britain’s ceramic capital. This two-day conference will explore groundbreaking developments in advanced material formulation, sustainable kiln operations, precision component engineering, and energy-efficient thermal processing strategies tailored for modern industrial demands. Exploring High-Performance Refractory and Ceramic Applications Thermal processing across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, energy, and traditional whitewares requires structural components that withstand extreme temperature cycles, heavy load-bearing conditions, and harsh chemical environments. The summit will highlight the latest breakthroughs in high-purity alumina, silicon carbide, cordierite, steatite, and mullite formulations. Presentations will showcase how tailored ceramic structures dramatically reduce thermal mass, lower fuel consumption, and extend overall service life. Attendees will gain direct insight into how optimized kiln furniture designs enable cleaner, faster, and more sustainable firing cycles across diverse industrial applications. Rapid Prototyping and Custom Ceramic Solutions Modern industrial manufacturing demands speed, accuracy, and flexibility from initial concept through full-scale production. A central theme of this year's event is the integration of advanced CNC rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and digital design workflows into custom ceramic component fabrication. Delegates will attend technical workshops demonstrating how computer-aided design and fast-turnaround prototyping shorten development cycles for complex geometries, enabling rapid testing and deployment of high-temperature components without compromising structural integrity or material performance. Keynote Addresses and Expert Technical Panels The conference features a curated lineup of international guest speakers, industry leaders, and technical specialists from IPS Ceramics and collaborating research institutions. Keynote addresses will focus on navigating supply chain challenges, decarbonization strategies for high-temperature manufacturing, and the future role of technical ceramics in renewable energy storage and microelectronics production. Interactive panel discussions will give participants direct access to experts to discuss real-world challenges, such as thermal shock prevention, material wear reduction, and localized refractory failure analysis. Networking and B2B Collaboration Opportunities Located in Stoke-on-Trent—a region historically recognized as the world center for ceramic technology—the summit serves as an essential networking forum for technical professionals and decision-makers. Dedicated B2B networking sessions, interactive exhibition booths, and formal evening receptions offer attendees ample opportunity to form strategic partnerships, discuss customized supply agreements, and exchange ideas with global peers. Whether looking to upgrade existing thermal equipment, source specialist ceramic parts, or discover raw material innovations, the summit provides an unparalleled platform for collaborative growth.

The ALT Northern Summer Summit is the premier gathering for learning technology professionals in the North of England. This two-day conference in Leeds brings together a diverse community to celebrate the achievements of the past academic year and look forward to the challenges of the next. The theme for 2026 is "Sustainable Innovation," focusing on how we can build resilient digital systems that are environmentally conscious and socially responsible. Day one features a series of high-profile keynotes and panel discussions. We are honored to host international speakers who will provide a global perspective on educational trends. The afternoon sessions are dedicated to "Member Showcases," where ALT members present their own research and projects. This is a fantastic way to see the incredible work happening across the sector and to find potential collaborators for your next project. Day two is more informal, with a focus on community-led unconference sessions. Attendees can propose topics on the morning of the event, ensuring that the most current and pressing issues are addressed. This flexible format allows for deep dives into niche topics that might not fit into a traditional conference schedule. Whether it's the role of blockchain in micro-credentials or the use of gaming in the classroom, the unconference sessions are often the most memorable part of the summit. The social highlight of the event is the Summer Gala Dinner, held at a prestigious Leeds venue. This is a time to relax, celebrate, and recognize the contributions of our members with the regional ALT awards. With plenty of opportunities for networking, learning, and celebration, the Northern Summer Summit is the perfect way to wrap up the academic year. Join us in Leeds for two days of inspiration, connection, and forward-thinking dialogue.

As more institutions move toward hybrid and fully online models, the physical campus is being supplemented—and in some cases replaced—by digital environments. The Association for Learning Technology (ALT) is hosting a hands-on workshop in Leeds titled "Designing the Virtual Campus." This event is a deep dive into the UX (User Experience) and UI (User Interface) design of educational spaces. Participants will spend the day working in a high-tech "Design Studio" environment. The morning is dedicated to understanding the psychology of online learning. Why do students engage in some spaces and feel isolated in others? We will examine case studies of "Virtual Worlds" and 3D learning environments, looking at what works and what fails. You will learn how to apply architectural principles to digital space, focusing on navigation, "third spaces" for social interaction, and the seamless integration of synchronous and asynchronous tools. In the afternoon, the focus shifts to production. Using a variety of low-code and no-code platforms, attendees will prototype a "Virtual Hub" for a specific student cohort. Whether you are building a landing page for a postgraduate department or a complex VR classroom, our mentors will be on hand to provide technical guidance. This is not just about making things look good; it's about functional design that supports learning outcomes. The workshop is limited to 30 participants to ensure a high level of individual support. This small group setting fosters a collaborative atmosphere where you can share your own challenges and receive peer feedback. We will also provide a "Design Toolkit" to all attendees, containing templates, checklists, and resource links to help you continue your work after the workshop. If you are responsible for the digital "look and feel" of your institution, this workshop is a vital investment in your professional skills.

Focusing on the critical issue of the digital divide, the Association for Learning Technology (ALT) presents a specialized networking seminar in Leeds titled "Digital Inclusion: Bridging the Gap." This event is designed for those on the front lines of education who are struggling to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has equal access to digital learning opportunities. The afternoon will start with a series of lightning talks. These five-minute presentations from various institutions across Yorkshire will highlight successful projects that have improved accessibility and participation. From providing low-cost hardware to students in rural areas to designing course materials for neurodivergent learners, these talks offer a wealth of "stolen ideas" that you can bring back to your own organization. Following the lightning talks, the event shifts into a structured networking format. We use a "World Cafe" style setup where attendees rotate through different tables, each focused on a specific sub-topic such as "Mobile-First Design," "Zero-Data Learning," and "Assistive Technologies." This ensures that you meet a diverse range of colleagues and contribute to multiple conversations throughout the session. It is a highly interactive format that moves away from the "sage on the stage" model and empowers every attendee to be an expert. The venue, The Tetley, provides a unique and inspiring backdrop for these discussions. As a center for contemporary art and learning, it reflects the creative thinking required to solve systemic issues like digital exclusion. The event will conclude with a social hour, featuring local Leeds refreshments, allowing for deeper one-on-one connections. If you believe that technology should be a tool for equity rather than a barrier, this is an essential event for your 2026 calendar.

The Association for Learning Technology invites you to an intensive one-day conference: The Future of AI in Northern Education. Hosted at the University of Leeds, this event is a deep dive into how Artificial Intelligence is specifically reshaping the educational landscape of Northern England. With the rise of large language models and predictive analytics, the role of the educator is evolving, and this conference aims to provide the roadmap for that evolution. The program is split into three core tracks: "Implementation and Infrastructure," "Ethics and Equity," and "Pedagogical Innovation." In the Infrastructure track, IT professionals and administrators will discuss the logistical challenges of deploying AI at scale, including security concerns and cost-benefit analyses. The Ethics and Equity track will tackle the "digital divide," ensuring that AI tools do not inadvertently disadvantage students from lower-socioeconomic backgrounds or those with specific learning needs. Finally, the Pedagogical Innovation track showcases real-world examples of AI-assisted grading, personalized learning paths, and virtual tutoring systems. A major highlight of the afternoon is the "AI Playground," an exhibition space where attendees can get hands-on experience with the latest software and hardware. Unlike a traditional trade show, the Playground is moderated by ALT experts who can provide unbiased critiques and advice on how these tools fit into an academic framework. This is a rare opportunity to test-drive expensive technology before committing institutional budgets. As the day winds down, we will host a "Northern Powerhouse" roundtable. This session brings together leaders from Leeds, Manchester, and Sheffield to discuss how regional partnerships can strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in EdTech. By attending, you become part of a powerful network of educators and technologists dedicated to excellence. The insights gained here will be compiled into a post-conference white paper distributed to all ALT members, ensuring the conversations in Leeds have a lasting national impact.

The Association for Learning Technology (ALT) is proud to present the 2026 Digital Pedagogy Symposium in the heart of Leeds. This landmark event is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical pedagogical frameworks and the practical, day-to-day application of educational technology in higher and further education. As we navigate an era defined by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and immersive learning, this symposium serves as a vital touchpoint for professionals committed to student success. The day will begin with a provocative keynote address focusing on the "human-in-the-loop" philosophy, ensuring that as we adopt more automated systems, the core values of empathy and personal mentorship remain at the forefront of the student experience. Following the keynote, attendees can choose from a variety of breakout sessions. These sessions are curated to cover a broad spectrum of interests, from the technicalities of API integration in Learning Management Systems to the creative design of inclusive, accessible digital content. One of the unique features of the Leeds Chapter event is its focus on regional collaboration. Leeds has established itself as a major tech hub in the UK, and this event leverages that local expertise by bringing together university staff and local EdTech innovators. You will have the opportunity to participate in "Solution Sprints," where small groups work together to solve a specific digital learning challenge presented by a local institution. This hands-on approach ensures that you leave not just with notes, but with practical strategies you can implement immediately. Networking is a cornerstone of the ALT experience. Extended coffee breaks and a catered lunch are designed to foster organic conversations. Whether you are a veteran learning technologist or a faculty member just beginning to explore digital tools, the environment is inclusive and supportive. We will conclude the day with a plenary panel discussing the ethical implications of data privacy in the modern classroom, providing a somber yet necessary look at our responsibilities as digital citizens. This symposium isn't just a meeting; it's a catalyst for the next year of innovation in your professional practice.