Prof. Nikolaos M. Freris

University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), China

Brief: Nick Freris is Professor in the School of Computer Science at USTC and former Vice Dean of the International College (2019-2024). He received the Diploma in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Greece, in 2005, and the M.S. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, the M.S. degree in Mathematics, and the Ph.D. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering all from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in 2007, 2008, and 2010, respectively. 

His research lies in AIoT/CPS/IoT: machine  learning, distributed optimization, data mining, wireless networks, control,  and signal processing, with applications in transportation, power systems, sensor networks,    and robotics. Dr. Freris has published several  papers in high-profile conferences and journals held by IEEE, ACM, and SIAM and holds four patents. His research has been sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, the Anhui Department of Science and Technology, Tencent, and the National Science Foundation (NSF), USA. He was recognized as the 2023 IEEE ROBIO Best Paper Award Finalist, as well as with the USTC Alumni Foundation Innovation Scholar Award (twice), the IBM High Value Patent Award, the IBM Invention Achievement Award (twice), and the Gerondelis Foundation Scholarship. 

Previously, he was with the faculty of NYU and, before that, he held senior researcher and postdoctoral researcher positions at EPFL and IBM Research, respectively. Dr. Freris is a Senior Member of IEEE, ACM, and CCF. 

Prof. Xinwei Yao

Zhejiang University of Technology, China

Brief: Dr. Yao Xinwei, born in May 1986 in Zhuji, Zhejiang Province, is currently a professor and doctoral supervisor of Zhejiang University of Technology, vice president of Advanced Technology Research Institute of Zhejiang University of Technology, winner of National Wu Wenjun Award for Outstanding Youth in Artificial Intelligence, winner of Zhejiang Outstanding Youth Fund, and one of the top Ten Young Science and Technology Talents in Hangzhou. CCF Distinguished Member of China Computer Society, CAAI Senior Member of China Society for Artificial Intelligence, IEEE Senior Member..

His main research fields are swarm intelligence computing, swarm intelligence perception and collaboration, intelligent Internet of Things and other basic theories, core technologies and comprehensive solutions. His scientific research achievements have won 9 provincial and ministerial awards, such as the National Wu Wenjun Award for Outstanding Youth in Artificial Intelligence (the first winner in Zhejiang Province), Wu Wenjun Award for Artificial Intelligence Science and Technology Progress, Second Prize for Technological Invention, First Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress of Zhejiang Province, and second Prize for technological invention. Including IEEE TMC, ACM/IEEE ToN, IEEE TNNLS, IEEE IoT-J, IEEE TCAD and other TOP journal papers more than 40, 1 paper for the journal highly cited paper, published 3 English monographs, 3 chapters, published 1 Chinese book. It has obtained more than 30 authorized national invention patents and more than 10 software Copyrights.

Prof. Chan Nee Nee

UCSI University, Malaysia

Brief: Thought-provoking speaker, researcher, and teacher, Professor Chan Nee Nee inspires others to think critically about their actions and reflect on their work. As an invited speaker to conferences and seminars, Nee Nee’s highly interactive style enables her to make meaningful connections with her audience. Nee Nee previously worked as Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences in UCSI University and Quest International University, and was with the Singapore Polytechnic, as Deputy Director, Language and Communication Department. She has a Doctorate in Education (Durham University, UK), an M.A. in English Studies from the National University of Singapore. Nee Nee’s research interests are in technology-enhanced learning, bullying and cyberbullying, digital cultures, and academic practice. She has published in high impact journals and led several large grant projects in cyberbullying and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic practices. Her passion for exploring how technologies intersect with education and society has led her to focus on the big wave currently sweeping the world: the impact of Generative AI in higher education.

Title: ChatGPT and GenAI: Empowering and Constraining Impact on Higher Education

Abstract: With the public release of ChatGPT in November 2022, the initial response among the academic community has ranged from euphoria to hysteria. Some educators and media journalists proclaim it as a revolutionary invention akin to the creation of the computer. Others perceive it as a threat to their academic practices and jobs. Subsequent release of other Generative AI tools such as Perplexity, Microsoft Pilot, Bing and Chatpdf have reinforced the claim that GenAI is transforming the educational sector.  This talk explores how university teachers and students have used ChatGPT and GenAI in higher education and discusses its empowering and constraining impact. The cultural and social implications of such technologies will be also examined.

Assoc. Prof. Teoh Ai Ping

Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia

Brief: Teoh Ai Ping is an Associate Professor and currently serves as the DBA and Online DBA and previously Online MBA program manager at the Graduate School of Business, Universiti Sains Malaysia. She holds a Doctor of Business Administration, Master of Science (Information Technology) and Bachelor of Accountancy (Hons.). Ts. Dr. Teoh is a Professional Technologist (Cyber Security Technology) with the Malaysian Board of Technologists and a Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional with the International Association of Risk and Compliance Management Professionals. She is also an associate member with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants, the Institute of Internal Audit, Malaysia and Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and professional member with Association of Computing Machinery and Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. With a background in both accounting and information systems technology sector, she began her career as an account executive in the EMS industry and then transitioning to consulting in SAP R/3 Enterprise Resource Planning system specializing in the Financial and Controlling; as well as ABAP/4 programming and SAP Scripts. Ts. Dr. Teoh eventually embarked on a career in the academic sector as a Deputy Dean School of Business Administration in a private University before joining GSB USM. Ts. Dr. Teoh has served as external assessor and subject matter expert in several accounting and business programs and being external examiner for Doctoral theses evaluation. Ts Dr. Teoh has successfully completed several consultancy and corporate training projects to clients in both manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia and abroad. She has a widespread publication record, with articles featured in both local and international journals; and delivered speeches at various international conferences and industry events as Invited Speaker and Keynote Speaker. Her areas of interests include enterprise systems, enterprise risk management, cyber security, and business sustainability.

Title: Crafting a Digital Learning Experience: Insights from an Online Postgraduate Business Program

Abstract: In the rapidly evolving realm of higher education, postgraduate programs are progressively shifting from traditional in-person instruction to online platforms. This transition, while offering flexibility and broader access to learners, also introduces distinct challenges in ensuring the quality and effectiveness of online education. This case study examines the development of an online postgraduate program with a focus on business administration program, employing a holistic and cohesive approach rooted in the principles of Open Distance Learning (ODL). The study highlights the critical steps and considerations involved in transforming conventional classroom-based teaching into an engaging and effective online experience. Emphasis is placed on designing courses that foster a deeper understanding of subject matter, enhance problem-solving abilities, and encourage higher-order thinking among postgraduate students. By integrating ODL strategies, the program aims to create an interactive, student-centered learning environment that supports critical thinking and real-world application of business management concepts. The findings of this case study underscore the effectiveness of the ODL approach in delivering high-quality postgraduate education in an online setting. The paper also explores how this approach can be used to overcome common challenges in online learning, such as student engagement, maintaining academic rigor, and supporting diverse learning styles. By leveraging digital tools and pedagogical innovations, the program fosters a dynamic learning experience that promotes active participation, collaboration, and continuous skill development. Moreover, the study demonstrates the potential of ODL to not only enhance learning outcomes but also to drive innovation in the design and delivery of online postgraduate programs. The insights gained from this case study offer valuable guidance for educators and institutions seeking to develop or refine their own online programs, particularly in the field of business education. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on online learning and provides a model for effectively navigating the challenges of delivering postgraduate education in a digital landscape.