BEA2026

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming economies, societies, and media landscapes worldwide, and the Arab region is no exception. Governments across the Middle East and North Africa are increasingly investing in AI strategies to drive digital transformation, diversify economies, and enhance public services. At the same time, challenges such as limited research infrastructure, uneven access to data, regulatory gaps, and skills shortages continue to hinder effective adoption. This presentation explores the dual trajectory of AI in the Arab world: the opportunities it creates for innovation, education, media, and governance, alongside the socio-technical and ethical challenges it raises. Drawing on regional policy frameworks, case studies, and global comparisons, the discussion will highlight how Arab states can leverage AI responsibly while addressing risks related to employment, privacy, and algorithmic bias. The presentation aims to contribute to a critical dialogue on ensuring that AI deployment in the Arab context is inclusive, sustainable, and aligned with local priorities.

Panelists: Hussein Amin, American University in Cairo; Artificial Intelligence in the Arab World: Challenges and Opportunities
Ahmed El Gody, Orebro University; The Role of Social Media Influencers in the UAE as a Tool of Soft Power
Salma El Ghetany, American University in Cairo; AI Policy Agendas in the Arab World: Between Aspiration and Implementation
Khaled H. Alqahs, Kuwait University; Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Broadcasting Education: A Comparative Study of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Universities
Respondent: Mahitab Ezz El Din, Linnaeus University

Making an international documentary in low-resource settings requires creativity amid unpredictable conditions. Filmmakers may work alone in unfamiliar cultures, face ethical questions about representation, and confront how their own experiences shape the narrative. While such challenges can be disorienting, they often open unexpected possibilities for deeper reflection and more innovative documentary storytelling.

Moderator: Sangsun Choi, Kennesaw State University
Panelists: Larry Tung, Fashion Institute of Technology
Jiachun Hong, Utah Tech University
Robin Canfield, Actuality Abroad
Tynymgul Eshieva, Assistant Professor, American University of Central Asia

The BEA Great Ideas for Assessment (GIFA) is a forum where faculty can share their expertise in assignment assessment techniques, effective program evaluation methods, or streamlined accreditation processes. GIFA provides the platform to share your expertise with colleagues facing similar challenges. Come see the 2026 GIFAs.
Moderator: Timothy E. Bajkiewicz, Virginia Commonwealth University
Panelists: Weiyan Wang, Missouri State University; Assessing Growth, Coherence, and Outcomes in a Flexible Audio Production Curriculum;
Tamara J. Welter, Baylor University; Teaching for Retention in the Age of AI: An Oral Final Exam Model
Gretchen Macchiarella, California State University, Northridge; Data Collection in Canvas for All Levels of Assessment
Chad Whittle, Georgia College & State University; Using Audio Quizzes as an Assessment Tool in a Podcasting Course
Caroline E. Sawyer, University of South Carolina, Beaufort; Advisory Boards as Evaluative Infrastructure: A Framework for Industry-Aligned Assessment in Production Education

Recent gruesome viral moments that landed in the feed of unaware digital media users reminds us that the conversation around obscene material is not at a satisfactory close. What kind of impact do these visuals have on us? What would thoughtful policy proposals look like? And can we balance the weight of free speech with protective measures, ensuring a win-win for all?

Moderator: Amy E. Bonebright, Liberty University
Panelists: Chris Underation, PhD, Gordon College
Russ Jones, PhD, Liberty University

This panel discussion between current creative media production students and professors will talk about what works in the classroom. Students will lead the conversation, sharing what assignments, teaching methods, and feedback have pushed them to do their best creative work, and the professors will respond and discuss how to put these ideas into practice. The discussion will cover what kinds of projects get students excited, how critique sessions can be helpful instead of discouraging, creating environments where creativity thrives, and mentoring approaches that help students find their own creative voice.

Moderator: Ralph Beliveau, University of Oklahoma
Panelists: Scott Hodgson, University of Oklahoma
Traci Easley Williams, University of Oklahoma
Molly Horn, University of Oklahoma
Keaton Schallhorn, University of Oklahoma
Nathan Pooler, University of Oklahoma
Kate Needham, University of Oklahoma
Kevin Hahn, University of Oklahoma