Strengthening Critical Thinking in the Age of AI (261112WEB)

Generative AI is changing how we learn, solve problems and make decisions. For learning and development professionals, this raises an important question: how do we build people’s capability to use AI while strengthening their ability to think critically?

AI can support exploration, challenge assumptions and open up new perspectives. But relying on it too readily can bypass the questioning, evaluation and productive struggle that build deeper understanding and sound judgement.

Join three experienced practitioners for an AITD panel exploring the implications for learning, capability development and everyday work. Together, they will discuss:

• The thinking behind the technology: what neuroscience tells us about cognitive offloading and its implications for learning and judgement.
• Building AI capability: how organisations are helping people develop the confidence, skills and judgement to use AI effectively.
• Designing learning that strengthens thinking: how L&D can encourage curiosity, critical evaluation and independent reasoning as AI becomes embedded in work.

Help shape the conversation

What challenges are you seeing in your organisation? What would you like to ask the panel? After you register, go to the contact form on our website, and select the 'Webinar Question' as your 'Enquiry Subject' and we’ll draw on them during the discussion.

Meet the panel

Veronica Reilly
Co-Founder and Head of Change, Learning and Enablement, Digital Learning Partners

Veronica brings more than 28 years’ experience in learning, leadership and enterprise transformation, including work across more than 30 transformation programs. Drawing on educational neuroscience, she translates research into practical approaches that strengthen critical thinking, learning and behaviour change.

Her work explores how technology influences attention, curiosity and decision-making, and how learning professionals can respond. A regular conference presenter and facilitator, Veronica is completing a Master of Educational Neuroscience and is due to graduate as a Certified Neuroplastician at the end of 2026.

Michelle Navaratnam
Learning & Organisational Development Professional and Registered Psychologist

Michelle draws on a background in organisational psychology and extensive experience designing and delivering leadership and capability programs across construction, professional services, financial advisory, government and mining.

She brings a pragmatic, evidence-based approach to learning that supports lasting behavioural change. Her interests include how organisations build AI capability and how leaders and teams can use AI to challenge assumptions, strengthen judgement, collaborate and make better decisions in complex environments.

Jemma Hirst
Head of Digital Capability & Enablement, Grant Thornton Australia

Jemma leads Grant Thornton Australia’s AI enablement program, putting people and learning at the centre of adoption. She focuses on building practical capability, helping people develop the confidence, skills and judgement to use AI effectively and responsibly in their everyday work. She brings an organisational perspective on supporting people as they integrate AI into how they learn and work.

Please Note:

• By registering for this event, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions.  Event and course cost pricing is quoted gst exclusive.
• This webinar will be recorded for registered attendees who are unable to attend on the day.
• The Zoom login details will be emailed to you the day prior to the webinar.
• Registrations close 11 November 2026
• Times are stated in AEDT