The Padauk Classroom recently hosted an AI-Integrated Education Technology Workshop in Mandalay, bringing together nearly 60 educators from across Myanmar to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. This in-person event followed eight weeks of online training, allowing teachers to apply their newly acquired skills in a hands-on environment.
In November, three dedicated Parami students—Myat Moe Kywe, Bhone Khant Theim, and Ming Thet Paing—along with staff member Mason, launched Padauk Classroom. The Parami undergraduate students are alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. This team has been selected as one of the top four out of 32 applications for the 2024 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2024). Their project, the Padauk Classroom, aims to revolutionize education in Myanmar by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into learning and teaching.
There are 60 educators in two cohorts representing different education organizations, including Parami University, Phaung Daw Oo International University, AU MIT, Jamoi Foundation, Cherry Myay Academy, CAE Private High School, Hakha Education Degree College, Myanmar International Academy, Hysan IQ Math, CMEC International School, and NELC. The participants come from places such as Chaungzon, Taunggyi, Monywa, Mandalay, Pakokku, Mawlamyine, Magwe, Nyaung Oo, Bago, Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw, and Pyin Oo Lwin in different states and divisions in Myanmar.
The workshop was designed in two cohorts, each participating in a two-day immersive session. Educators from remote regions gathered to learn how AI tools can enhance their teaching practices, improve learning outcomes, and overcome connectivity barriers in education.
Before joining the workshop, the educators completed their two-month online training with Padauk Classroom, during which they acquired a fundamental understanding of the use of AI tools. The workshop allowed them to experience hands-on learning with AI Tools.
A key highlight of the workshop was the practical training on AI applications, including:
LM Studio for offline AI use - ensuring access to technology even in low-connectivity environments.
Learning Management Systems (LMS) – enabling educators to create and manage digital classrooms effectively.
Voice-integrated AI tools – allowing teachers to interact with technology using spoken commands.
Experts and mentors provided step-by-step guidance throughout the sessions, ensuring participants could confidently navigate the platforms.
Understanding the ethical implications of AI was a key focus of the second day. Dr. Kyaw Moe Tun, the President of Parami University, led a discussion on responsible AI use, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with ethical considerations. Participants explored how to safeguard students' data, prevent biases in AI-driven assessments, and promote inclusive and equitable learning environments.
One of the workshop's core missions was to address the digital divide by equipping educators with tools and strategies that function in low-bandwidth areas. Teachers engaged in interactive discussions on how to adapt AI-driven education to their unique classroom settings.
By the end of the program, each participant had developed a personalized AI integration plan for their school, ensuring that the knowledge gained would have a lasting impact beyond the workshop.
The success of the Padauk AI & EdTech Workshop reaffirms the importance of empowering educators with cutting-edge tools and methodologies. As technology continues to evolve, these educators will play a crucial role in ensuring that AI-driven education remains accessible, ethical, and impactful. The Padauk Classroom team expressed gratitude to the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) and all the dedicated educators who made this event a success. Together, we are shaping the future of education in Myanmar.
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