Professor Andreas Lanitis presented an invited keynote lecture entitled “Emerging Technologies in Training and Education” at the 2nd International Workshop on Facilitating Continuous Education and Training through AI in Software Engineering (F-TRANSFER) (https://www.cs.ubbcluj.ro/~avescan/f-transfer-2026/), held in conjunction with the 33rd IEEE International Conference on Software Analysis, Evolution and Reengineering (SANER) 2026 conference (https://conf.researchr.org/home/saner-2026).
The presentation showcased how cutting-edge technologies—including extended reality (XR), computer vision, and artificial intelligence (AI)—are reshaping both educational and professional training environments. By integrating these technologies into learning processes, educators and organizations can create more immersive, adaptive, and effective training experiences that meet the demands of modern society.
A central theme of the talk was the growing importance of experiential learning through immersive environments. Virtual reality (VR), in particular, was highlighted as a powerful tool for simulation-based training. Case studies demonstrated how VR can support teacher training, and address sensitive social issues such as gender harassment awareness. Additionally, VR applications tailored for elderly users illustrated how technology can enhance lifelong learning and accessibility across diverse populations. Furthermore, ongoing work on promoting inclusive workspace environments carried out as part of the InclusiveVR@Work (https://www.inclusivr-project.eu/) project was presented.
The lecture also explored the role of computer vision in educational settings. Advanced vision-based systems are increasingly capable of analyzing student behavior and performance in real time, enabling more accurate and objective assessment. Examples included systems for monitoring student engagement and evaluating teaching styles, offering valuable insights that can improve both instruction and learning outcomes.
Beyond showcasing technological innovations, the keynote addressed the broader implications and challenges associated with adopting these tools in real-world contexts. The integration of XR, computer vision, and AI into training systems raises important software engineering considerations, including system scalability, reliability, ethical use of data, and user acceptance. The talk emphasized the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to overcome these challenges and ensure that technological advancements translate into meaningful educational impact.
