AI may be challenging how we work, but it also presents exciting opportunities to work smarter, not harder. Combined with the changes brought by the Accord, we’re at a pivotal moment to reshape our roles and the ways we support our institutions. As always, the AAIR Forum offers an opportunity to reconnect with our tribe, share knowledge, and strengthen our community. Institutional research thrives on collaboration, and now more than ever, we need strong networks to navigate these complex times.
From the President
September is always a month I eagerly anticipate. In my part of New Zealand, it signals the end of winter’s grey, cold, and damp days, replaced by warmer weather, vibrant blossoms, daffodils, and the joyful bleating of newborn lambs.
For me, it also marks the approach of the annual AAIR Forum, which this year will be held in the beautiful city of Adelaide from 18 to 20 November. Our theme—After the Accord: where festivals and grapevines bring us together—captures the spirit of connection, growth, and celebration that the Forum embodies.
For me, the Forum is a cherished space for collaboration, reflection, and the sharing of ideas. It offers an invaluable opportunity to explore the opportunities and challenges of institutional research in modern tertiary education. Both Australia and New Zealand are undergoing significant reforms, driven by the Australian Universities Accord, the New Zealand Universities Advisory Group, and the New Zealand VET consultation process. These shifts, alongside the ongoing underfunding within tertiary education, create a turbulent environment. As institutional researchers, it is essential that we stay ahead of these developments, equipping ourselves to support our institutions through these challenging times.
At the same time, we are in the midst of a technological revolution that is reshaping how students engage with learning and how we perform our roles. AI is at the forefront of this shift, and recent discussions have highlighted concerns about its misuse, particularly by students in assessments. While some academics suggest returning to pen-and-paper exams, I believe this would be a step backward. Instead, I advocate embracing AI’s transformative potential and addressing its challenges head-on. We need to learn how to ‘tame the beast’ and leverage its power to improve our work, while at the same time being mindful of the unintended consequences that may arise.
Like many of you, I’m beginning to include AI in my daily work. I use it as a personal assistant—bouncing ideas off it, receiving suggestions, and deciding which to accept or discard. The use of AI does however raise a number of questions and important considerations around data security, ethical use, and transparency. As part of my professional practice, I remain vigilant about these issues, particularly around bias—both conscious and unconscious—and work to implement safeguards that mitigate any unintended consequences. The notion of a ‘single source of truth’ becomes much more complex in the age of AI. As institutional researchers, we constantly question the validity of data: Why is this considered the truth? Who decided it? What informed their views? These are the critical questions we must ask ourselves to ensure rigour and accuracy in our work.
The reforms currently sweeping through the sector demand that we remain adaptable and forward-thinking. As institutional researchers, we are well-positioned to guide our institutions through these changes. Whether it’s automating student feedback analysis, streamlining reporting processes, or supporting predictive modelling, AI enables us to reimagine our roles and professional practice for the better.
I know AI will be a key topic of conversation at the AAIR Forum this year, and I’m particularly looking forward to hearing how Forum presenters use AI in their work. I know the discussions we have in Adelaide will offer us insights to help navigate this ever-changing landscape.
I look forward to seeing you in Adelaide to connect, share ideas, and toast to our shared successes, growing stronger together through collaboration.
Stuart Terry
President, AAIR
