Umecit – University in Panama

We celebrate the 6th Conference on Teaching Innovation in the Classroom: Exploring the Future of Higher Education

The Metropolitan University of Education, Science and Technology (UMECIT) reaffirmed its leadership in educational transformation by holding the 6th Conference on Teaching Innovation in the Classroom, an event that marked a before and after in the incorporation of emerging technologies in higher education from the Neo-Cyberhumanist approach.

Under the motto: “Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality and the Metaverse in Higher Education: Exploring the Potential of Emerging Technologies to Transform the Learning Experience”, the event brought together teachers, students and experts in pedagogical innovation, who shared their knowledge and experiences to build a more connected and inclusive educational future.

Reflection and Educational Transformation

The event was opened by the rector of UMECIT, Dr. José Alberto Nieto Rojas, who highlighted the importance of technological advances in education. In his speech, he highlighted:

«We are living in a time of impressive change. Teachers are now guides and mentors, not the only classroom authorities. Our mission is to train global professionals, with critical thinking, ethical values and pedagogical skills to face the challenges of today's world.»

With this premise, UMECIT continues to promote resilient learning adapted to the demands of the labor market in a constantly evolving world.

Recognitions: Neo-Cyberhumanist Teacher Award

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the Neo-Cyberhumanist Teacher Award, which rewards teachers who demonstrate pedagogical excellence and educational innovation in different areas.

The winners in each category were:

  • 🌟 Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Alejandro Pinto de Gracia
  • 🌟 Creative, Critical and Prospective Thinking: Ariadna Janeth Berguido Navas
  • 🌟 Global Citizenship: Eleumen Pájaro Pedraza
  • 🌟 Digital Subsistence: Francisco Enrique Wellington Thomas
  • 🌟 Techno-Digital Skills: Gabriel Antonio Caco Ramos
  • 🌟 Sustainability: Karen Elizabeth Botello Núñez
  • 🌟 Conscious Ethical Commitment: Karen Aneth Peralta Caballero

The highest award, the Neo-Cyberhumanist Insignia, was given to teacher ANNIS ITSEL CAMPOS, who stood out for her exceptional commitment to the UMECIT pedagogical model.

Faculty Presentations: Fostering Innovation in the Classroom

During the day, nine presentations were given by teachers from various faculties and UMECIT locations. These works stood out for the implementation of tools such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality in immersive learning experiences.

The teachers recognized for their presentations were:

  • 🥉 Third place: Miguel Vasquez
  • 🥈 Second place: Alexis Guevara Pineda
  • 🥇 First place: Karen Botello Núñez

These presentations demonstrated how the integration of emerging technologies can encourage student participation and enrich learning.

 

Keynote Lecture: Looking to the Future

The event featured the participation of the renowned expert in emerging technologies, Dr. Fernando Santamaría González, who presented the keynote lecture entitled:
“Higher Education in the Digital Age: Artificial Intelligence and Converging Technologies for the Learning of the Future.”

In his presentation, Dr. Santamaría explored how digitalization is personalizing learning processes and adapting them to the demands of a constantly changing work environment.

 

UMECIT: Leader in Educational Innovation

The 6th Conference on Teaching Innovation in the Classroom reaffirms UMECIT's commitment to academic excellence and educational innovation. As a pioneering institution in the incorporation of emerging technologies, UMECIT continues to prepare teachers and students to face the challenges of the digital age, promoting quality educational experiences aligned with the values of Neo-Cyberhumanism.