AI Exploration Week: learning, experimenting and sharing

In July, University staff came together for AI Exploration Week, a new five-day programme organised by the AI Competency Centre. Introduced by Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt, and hosted by the Oxford e-Research Centre and Kellogg College, the week was designed to build confidence, capability and critical judgement in using AI for teaching, research and professional services work.

With 274 attendees and 20 sessions, the programme brought together colleagues with a wide range of experience, from those taking their first steps with generative AI to those already developing applications and agentic workflows.

“Before the AI Exploration week, I hadn't appreciated how important it is to choose the right tool for what I'm trying to achieve, whether that's researching, summarising information, or brainstorming ideas...”

The sessions explored both the capabilities and limitations of AI. Highlights included a four-part history of AI series, practical workshops on using AI to create value in professional services, discussions on academic writing and assessment, and hands-on sessions covering application development and AI agents.

A recurring theme was that effective AI use depends on more than knowing which tool to use. Participants were invited to consider how to ask better questions, provide context, identify blind spots and evaluate outputs critically, while maintaining professional judgement and responsible practice.

The programme also created opportunities for colleagues to learn from one another. Midday discussions addressed topics such as AI and education, while the Oxford AI Build Club gave participants space to share projects, challenges and practical lessons.

“The week has made me more confident about exploring AI tools and applying them thoughtfully to improve my productivity and learning.”

The week concluded with a celebration and reflection session, bringing participants together to share what they had learned, questioned and built.

By the end of the week, 86% of participants surveyed claimed the week was useful for building their understanding of the tools available to them at Oxford and 84% suggesting it built their confidence in using AI in their work.

Feedback from the event will help shape future activity, with plans to explore how AI Exploration Week could be developed further for 2027.

You can get a flavour of this year's event with our highlights video: