The Learning Ideas Conference (TLIC) 2025: Where Learning Meets the Future
New York, NY (June 16, 2025) - The Learning Ideas Conference (TLIC) 2025 welcomed educators, researchers, and technologists from around the globe to explore innovations in learning and technology for the workplace and higher education. In its 18th year, the conference featured five days of programming—online-only sessions on May 28th and 29th, followed by a hybrid event in New York City at Faculty House at Columbia University and online from June 11th – 13th.
With 3 keynotes, 2 panel discussions, and more than 100 sessions, TLIC 2025 sparked meaningful dialogue, fostered global collaboration, and brought new perspectives on the future of learning. This year’s keynote speakers explored some of the most pressing opportunities and challenges shaping the field today:
Dr. Rupert Wegerif (Professor of Education, University of Cambridge; Founder and Academic Director, Digital Education Futures Initiative) shared insights on Dialogic Education and Generative AI, noting that while generative AI poses challenges to traditional education, it also has the potential to enrich collective human–AI intelligence. When approached dialogically, it can foster deeper thinking, critical dialogue, and meaningful cultural engagement.
Dr. Bruce Martin McLaren (Professor, Carnegie Mellon University) offered his expertise on digital game-based learning (DGBL) and its impact on adult learning, drawing from decades of research at the intersection of cognitive science and learning technologies.
Michelle Cortese (XR Design Director at Meta; Adjunct Professor, NYU) presented on the applications of AR/VR and immersive interaction systems, emphasizing that building impactful XR experiences goes beyond technical expertise, as it also requires thoughtful consideration of the human experience and the medium’s human impact.
Dr. Rupert Wegerif presented the first keynote of the conference on the first online-only day of the conference.
Dr. Bruce Martin McLaren during the first hybrid day of the conference.
Michelle Cortese delivering her keynote on the second hybrid day of the conference.
Attendees expressed high praise for the conference’s process and timeline. “Outstanding job keeping this learning community engaged over multiple months. From submitting my proposal to the article and peer review process, to presenting and attending the conference, everything was so well-organized and handled professionally and with positivity. Kudos to David and the conference team!” said one online attendee anonymously.
Others highlighted the overall communications within the conference. “I had a great experience this year. I attended many interesting sessions. The conference team had the best communications of any event I've attended,” noted another.
Proposals submitted will be published as a book/ebook by Springer. Session recordings will be available soon on the event site: https://tlic2025.org.
Intrigued to participate next year? Sign up for our mailing list to get the latest updates on TLIC 2026 and learn more about the conference at: www.learningideasconf.org.