Discover why values and people matter in educational technology partnerships. In this conversation, Robert MacAuslan, vice president of artificial intelligence at Southern New Hampshire University, shares why collaboration built on shared ethics and priorities is essential for higher education.
MacAuslan reflects on meeting Dr. Cristi Ford, Chief Learning Officer at D2L, and learning that they shared many of the same concerns about ethics and biases when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasizes the importance of partnering with vendors—like D2L—made up of people who are having similar conversations about these issues and the future of education.
"It’s about the people and the values. I’ve found more like-minded people at D2L than at almost any other vendor or partner we work with." – Robert MacAuslan
Key Takeaways:
- People-first partnerships matter most in edtech. The strongest collaborations are built on relationships, not just technology.
- Shared values and concerns build trust. Aligning on issues like AI ethics, bias, and sustainability creates meaningful connections.
- Like-minded partners drive better outcomes. Choosing vendors who share your vision and priorities leads to stronger, more impactful partnerships.
Whether you’re exploring online learning tools, improving student engagement, or designing courses with digital learning experiences, this discussion offers actionable perspectives for faculty, administrators, and senior leadership.