As AI becomes more embedded in the online experience, how do we keep empathy, trust, and student connection at the center? This session offers human-centered strategies for using AI to foster belonging, enhance the student experience, and build social capital while preserving the human touch that supports learning and well-being.

AI is steadily transforming the educational landscape, offering scalable ways to enhance student support and improve the learning experience. From chatbots that answer admissions questions, to onboarding tools that recommend resources and peer groups, to advising systems and feedback generators embedded in coursework, AI is reshaping how students access information, interact with content, and build meaningful connections throughout their academic journey.

This session explores how institutions can integrate AI into online learning environments in ways that are human-centered and values-driven. Rather than replacing human relationships, AI can augment them—fostering belonging, enhancing engagement, and strengthening social capital without sacrificing empathy or trust.

Grounded in the principles of transparency, care, and student empowerment, this session highlights real-world examples and scalable strategies that support connection, not just convenience. Participants will engage with a design framework for AI integration and reflect on their own campus practices—considering how AI is currently being used or avoided and what that means for student equity and experience.

Discussion will center on three key areas:

1. Advising and Student Support: Institutions are using AI to streamline access to information while preserving the relationship-driven nature of coaching and advising. We'll explore how AI can assist without replacing the human touch that defines meaningful guidance.
2. Peer Engagement and Community Building: AI can recommend peer groups, surface discussion prompts, or support mentoring initiatives in ways that prioritize student voice and belonging over automation for its own sake.
3. Feedback and Academic Interaction: Faculty, course designers, and success coaches are using AI tools to deliver timely, personalized feedback, helping scale support and reduce delays without compromising instructional quality.

Throughout the session, participants will explore practical design challenges, discuss student readiness to engage critically with AI, and respond to guiding questions related to trust, transparency, and human connection. A takeaway guide will support ongoing team conversations and planning.

Participants will leave with a clear framework for integrating AI in ways that center care, connection, and equity. They’ll gain actionable insights into how AI-enhanced advising, mentoring, and feedback systems can improve the student experience—equipping educators to lead with clarity and confidence in the future of digital learning.
 

Dr. Andrew Feldstein

Assist. Provost, Teaching Innovation & Learning Tech. at Fort Hays State University

Katy Kappler

Co-Founder and CEO at InScribe

Katy is an impact-driven CEO who has spent 25 years creating solutions that extend access to high-quality education for every student. She is the co-founder and CEO of InScribe, an innovative digital community platform that is proven to improve student outcomes, increase sense of belonging, and scale support for non-traditional and underserved student populations. Leveraging her experience and strategic abilities, Katy specializes in ed-tech innovations, student success, and communities of belonging.