To equip librarians with the knowledge and skills necessary for integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA) organized a comprehensive four- day Seminar-Workshop titled “AI Integration in Theological Education: Challenges and Prospects.” This event took place from September 25 to 28, 2023, at the Bangkok Christian Guest House in Bangkok, Thailand.
The primary objective of the seminar was to equip academic deans and theological librarians with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively integrate AI technologies into higher education, particularly within library services. Participants engaged in a dynamic learning environment where they explored the potential benefits of AI for theological education. They explored practical applications of AI in research and discussed policies and strategies that facilitate successful implementation within their institutions.
The program featured a variety of sessions that covered crucial topics, including AI Literacy and Ethics for Library Training, Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Theological Education and Librarianship, Artificial Intelligence and Its Implication to Theological Research, Library, and Information Services, Theological Education in the Digital Age: Exploring the Use of AI Research Tools at APNTS. The seminar-workshop featured a diverse group of librarians across the Asia, showcasing the region’s dedication to incorporating Artificial Intelligence into theological education. The Central Philippine University were represented by Dr. Limuel Equina, the ATESEA Executive Director, Mr. Christian C. Mosqueda, Prof. Vince Ervin V. Palcullo, Prof. Melanie G. Hermano, and Mrs. Ma. Leen Gahum.
Among the notable participants from the Philippines were Assoc. Prof. Stephen B. Alayon, Program Coordinator of Bachelor of Library and Information Science at West Visayas State University, Iloilo City, and Ms. Noreen Del Rosario, Head Librarian of the Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, Rizal who served as speakers. The seminar not only equipped participants with valuable skills and knowledge but also fostered collaboration and dialogue among librarians and educators about the transformative role of AI in theological education. Through these discussions, ATESEA aims to prepare its members to navigate the challenges and seize the prospects that AI presents in their academic and library contexts.
