Dr Ioannis Glinavos, Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Westminster, recently spoke at the 19th international Research in Distance Education and e-learning (RIDE) conference at the Senate House in London. He discussed AI avatars and how they can be used in the classroom.
Organised by the Centre for Online and Distance Education (CODE), the conference, titled Empowering and Sustaining Change, focused on research and scholarly practices in online, distance, blended, hybrid and hyflex higher education.
In his presentation, Dr Glinavos examined the role of streaming avatars and synchronous AI assistants as tools to make online education more engaging, inclusive and personalised. Streaming avatars, he explained, offer a dynamic alternative to traditional video, allowing educators to represent themselves in creative ways while also preserving privacy and overcoming technological constraints.
He also highlighted the benefits of real-time AI assistants that can respond instantly to student questions, facilitate discussion, and provide tailored support based on individual learner needs. Together, these technologies present exciting opportunities to enhance learning outcomes, improve student satisfaction, and address many of the persistent challenges in digital teaching.
Dr Ioannis Glinavos said: “Online, blended, hybrid and digital education are mainstream in higher education, yet the tools we use to reach student audiences are often outdated. My presentation offered a reflection on the use of AI tools, like realistic video avatars. The key question was whether such technologies are gimmicks or can genuinely help students engage with educational content.”
Dr Ioannis Glinavos’ talk directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about Law courses at the University of Westminster.
