The AI Season

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping how we live, learn and interact. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, it is important that people of all ages have opportunities to understand how AI technologies work and to think critically about their impact on society.

To help make conversations about AI more accessible, Heriot-Watt University partnered with Currie-based High Flyers Basketball League to deliver The AI Season; an innovative public engagement programme that brought researchers, artists and community members together to explore AI in hands-on and creative ways. Led by Professor Marcelo Pereya and co-project lead Marta Romeo, the project transformed a familiar community space into a place for discovery, discussion and learning.

Rather than focusing on coding or technical skills, The AI Season encouraged participants to explore what AI is, where it appears in everyday life and how it influences the choices and decisions we make. Through a series of informal, drop-in activities, young people and their families engaged with AI through games, creative challenges and physical activities.

The programme brought together expertise from across disciplines, led by Science Communication expert Amanda Tyndall. Artist-in-residence Nathan Smith developed the interactive Large Language Machine installation, while Dekko Comics created a bespoke AI-themed comic to support conversations around AI and society. A live illustration session by artist Jenny Capon captured participants' ideas and experiences, helping to create a welcoming and engaging environment for exploration and dialogue.

"We’re incredibly proud to be working with the High Flyers Basketball Academy and the Currie community centre to bring The AI Season to life, connecting artificial intelligence with youth culture and sport in ways that meet young people where they are, value their experiences, and is inclusive and fun, while still supporting critical thinking about how these technologies shape everyday life." - Professor Marcelo Pereyra

Building Digital Confidence

A central theme of The AI Season was that AI is a tool created by people, not a thinking mind. By unpacking how AI systems are designed and used, the programme helped participants develop their understanding of algorithms and digital influence. Through discussion and shared experiences, young people were encouraged to ask questions and build confidence in navigating an increasingly AI-enabled world.

Connecting Research and Community

The AI Season reflects Heriot-Watt University's commitment to ensuring that emerging technologies are explored not only in research laboratories but also in conversation with the communities they affect. Drawing on the University's expertise in AI and digital technologies, the programme created opportunities for meaningful dialogue between researchers and the public, supporting more responsible and inclusive approaches to innovation.

Developed as part of Heriot-Watt's wider programme of AI research and public engagement activity, including AI Literacy work supported by funder EPSRC, The AI Season demonstrates how creative partnerships can help make complex topics accessible, relevant and engaging for diverse audiences.

Interested in learning more or hosting an AI Season activity in your community? Contact the HW Engage team at hwengage@hw.ac.uk