Researcher: Dr Louise Drumm
Collaboration with Midlothian Community Action in May 2025
As a researcher with an interest in artificial intelligence (AI) in education, I focus on supporting people to understand and use this technology responsibly. Much of my work explores the ethical application of generative AI, particularly in non-commercial and community contexts. Drawing on my experience as an educator and trainer, I wanted to share this knowledge with audiences who may not have access to sector-specific guidance or support on AI.
In discussion with Dawn Smith, we identified local community organisations as a group that could particularly benefit from public engagement activities around AI. This led to initial conversations with Midlothian Community Action (MCA), who had already recognised AI as an area for development and were enthusiastic about co-organising an event for individuals working in local organisations. MCA is the Third Sector Interface for Midlothian, which brings together third sector organisations from across the local region.
With the support of this funding, we were able to host a workshop for third sector organisations in Midlothian in a comfortable, accessible venue and provide refreshments to encourage informal discussion and networking. My workshop formed the first part of the wider “Innovation Morning” event on 27 May 2025, which also included presentations by local funders.
The workshop attracted more than 30 participants from a diverse range of community and third-sector organisations. Feedback was highly positive, with participants noting that the session gave them a clearer understanding of both the opportunities and risks of AI for their work. The online resources shared at the event have since been accessed over 120 times, showing sustained interest beyond the day itself.
This project helped connect academic expertise with local community needs and demonstrated how accessible, ethical discussions about AI can empower smaller organisations to engage confidently with new technologies.