The 10th International Conference on Smart Learning Environments (ICSLE 2026) was held on October 19–20, 2026, at the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan named after Nizami in Tashkent. Hosted by the International Association of Smart Learning Environments (IASLE) in partnership with the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan and GSENet, the conference brought together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from across the globe under the theme “The Design and Development of Future Learning Environments.”
Opening Ceremony
The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Dilnoza Kholmurodova, Vice Rector for International Cooperation at the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan; Ms. HyunJyung Park, Project Officer for Education at the UNESCO Tashkent Office; and Dr. Ahmed Tlili, President of IASLE. Speakers emphasised the urgency of rethinking learning environments in an era of rapid technological change, and the importance of international collaboration in shaping educational ecosystems that are both innovative and equitable.
UNESCO Panel: Reimagining CPD in the Digital Age
Following the opening ceremony, a panel discussion organised by UNESCO Tashkent was held, titled “Reflect, Learn, Grow: Reimagining CPD in the Digital Age.” Moderated by Ms. Nargiza Kuchkarova of the UNESCO Tashkent Education Unit, the panel featured Soatmurad Khaydarov, Durdona Boynazarova, Malohat Alimbabayeva, and Umedjon Rakhimov. The session generated a lively exchange of views, with panelists and participants engaging in animated discussion on how continuous professional development for teachers can be transformed through digital technologies — and on the practical obstacles that stand in the way. Questions from the floor extended the conversation well beyond the scheduled time, reflecting the community’s deep interest in the topic.
Keynote and Paper Sessions
Dr. Michelle Bedeker, Associate Professor and Advisor of the Rector, delivered an address titled “Beyond the PedTech Wonderland: Who Is Smart in a Smart Learning Environment?”, challenging attendees to interrogate what “smart” actually means when applied to learning environments and who ultimately benefits.
Across the two days, more than 15 papers were presented in parallel sessions covering a wide spectrum of topics — from trustworthy AI agents and affective learning analytics to VR-based media literacy training, hybrid simulation for cybersecurity education, teacher-guided AI concept mapping, and standards-aligned smart distance learning frameworks for Uzbekistan. Presentations were delivered in a hybrid format, with online participants joining via Zoom alongside on-site attendees. Each session concluded with engaged Q&A, and discussions frequently continued during coffee breaks and the campus tour.
Inaugural IASLE Emerging Scholar Award
The closing ceremony featured the presentation of the inaugural IASLE Emerging Scholar Award to Dr. Sonsoles López-Pernas of the University of Eastern Finland, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field of smart learning environments. Joining the ceremony online, Dr. López-Pernas received the award virtually and delivered an acceptance speech in which she reflected on her academic journey and career path, offering inspiration to early career researchers in the audience. The announcement drew enthusiastic applause from the audience, marking a milestone moment for IASLE as it launches this annual recognition for early career researchers.
Looking Ahead
ICSLE 2026 affirmed the strength of the international smart learning community and the value of sustained dialogue across disciplines, sectors, and regions. IASLE extends its sincere gratitude to the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan for hosting the conference, to UNESCO Tashkent for its contributions, to all presenters and participants, and to the reviewers and organising committee whose work made the event possible.
Preparations are already underway for the next edition of ICSLE. Details will be announced on the IASLE website at http://iasle.net/.
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