The Ivey Business School’s EdTech team has received international recognition for its innovative approach to teaching with artificial intelligence. At the recent Future of Management Education (FOME) Conference in Oslo, Norway, Ivey was awarded the Learning Design Award for AIBEL (Artificial Intelligence-Boosted Experiential Learning), a new tool designed to enhance and extend the case method through responsible AI integration.
AIBEL is currently being pilot tested at Ivey and acts as an AI tutor that allows students to engage in realistic, dynamic case discussions outside the classroom. Rather than replacing faculty or traditional case teaching, the platform is designed to strengthen preparation, build confidence, and deepen learning, helping students arrive in class ready to contribute at a higher level.
“Case discussion is at the heart of how we develop leaders at Ivey,” said Julian Birkinshaw, Dean, Ivey Business School. “What AIBEL allows us to do is extend that learning experience beyond the classroom in a way that is thoughtful, responsible, and firmly grounded in our pedagogy.”
Unlike static study tools or recorded content, AIBEL recreates the flow of a live case discussion. Faculty upload their teaching notes and retain full control over learning objectives, discussion questions, and structure, ensuring that AI supports, rather than directs, the learning experience. Students can engage through voice or text, receive real-time feedback, and practice articulating their thinking in a low-stakes environment.
The project was recognized by FOME for its strong learning design methodology and its potential to address growing challenges in management education, including scalability, accessibility, and the responsible use of AI. Early pilot results at Ivey point to strong student engagement, with many highlighting AIBEL’s role in improving confidence and preparation for in-class discussions.
“At a time when AI is rapidly reshaping business and society, it’s essential that business schools lead by example,” Birkinshaw added. “AIBEL shows how AI can be used to enhance experiential learning, support faculty expertise, and ultimately create an even richer student experience.”
The award reflects the School's broader commitment to innovation in teaching and learning and aligns with Ivey's Bold Ambition strategy. As AIBEL continues to evolve, the platform offers a glimpse into the future of management education, one where human judgment and artificial intelligence work together to develop the skills leaders need in an increasingly complex world.
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