Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk

In this episode, Jethro interviews Derek "DC" Crager, a passionate advocate for making artificial intelligence accessible, especially for the neurodiverse community. DC shares his personal experiences as an autistic individual and discusses how AI can empower people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia to enhance their skills and independence. The conversation explores the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals face, the importance of supportive AI interfaces, and how technology can provide cognitive equity and a patient, understanding companion. DC also explains his work with Practical AI and AI for Autistics, offering insights into building inclusive tools and communities that help neurodiverse people thrive in education and employment. The episode highlights the transformative potential of AI as both a mentor and a bridge for communication, learning, and self-advocacy. Neurodiverse vs. neurotypical AI gives “us” someone to talk to Voice interface to be a patient anthropomorphic voice Speak with ourselves Those of us with ADHD are either at 50,000 feet or deep in the weeds Cognitive Equity is what AI enables for people with disabilities to have a voice when they didn’t before Genius Within - spikey profile Lack of control over the words can be seen as ignorance or stupidity How to make sure that the AI is helpful and context aware Guardrails on the AI - for example, as a subject matter expert Navigating the community and context instead of just GPS navigating vs. talking on the phone navigating Anyplace that a human can be offering mentorship 1:1 virtual mentor:student relationship Conversationally know and communicate about students Reach out to DC about free resources About the guest: Derek “DC” Crager , a passionate advocate for making artificial intelligence approachable and accessible, particularly for individuals within the neurodiverse community. As someone who is autistic, Derek has dedicated himself to fostering a supportive environment where people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia can leverage AI to enhance their skills and income. Through his work at Practical AI , he emphasizes clarity and support, ensuring that users can navigate AI without being overwhelmed by its complexities. Derek has also achieved notable success in his career, having developed Amazon's top-rated employee training program, which focuses on simplifying complex concepts for better understanding and application. His community, now boasting over 6,060 members, thrives on the principles of shared learning and earning, making it a valuable resource for educators and leaders alike. He is poised to share insights drawn from his journey and the impactful initiatives at Practical AI, promising to engage and inspire any audience. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Eli interviews Jonathan Mast, a leading expert in AI prompting. Jonathan shares his journey into AI, starting with the advent of ChatGPT, and discusses the importance of utilizing AI tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, Claude, and Perplexity for business growth. He introduces a simple four-step AI prompt framework and emphasizes the need for iterative communication to get the most out of AI. Jonathan also addresses misconceptions about AI's complexity and its ethical considerations, advocating for its integration in education and other fields. The episode concludes with Jonathan providing insights into leveraging AI for deep research and practical applications. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis engages Dr. Jonan Donaldson in a deep and thoughtful discussion on the intersection of AI, ethics, and education. Dr. Donaldson, an assistant professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, shares his views on how AI can augment human intelligence and transform learning. Topics covered include generative AI, complex systems, the importance of critical thinking, and the ethical responsibilities of educators in integrating AI into their classrooms. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis talks with Zach Kinzler, an AI educator and advocate. They discuss Kinzler's background, his work in integrating AI into education, and his experiences working with students globally, including in Africa. Kinzler shares insights into AI trends, misconceptions, and the importance of AI literacy. Additionally, the episode touches on the Smarter Campus Podcast, Bootle Box, and practical tips for those in engineering looking to leverage AI. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Peter Swimm, a conversational AI technologist. Peter, the founder of Toilville, LLC, discusses his work in designing AI tools, the balance between automation and human touch, ethics in AI development, and shares his thoughts on the integration of AI in various industries. They also explore the cultural impacts of AI and its potential for creating accessible technology. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of Artificial Intelligence, Real Talk (AI with Eli), host Eli Davis sits down with McKenzie Price, Stanford grad, mom of two, and co-founder of the Two Hour Learning platform. McKenzie shares her journey in transforming education through AI-driven, personalized learning, and discusses the impact of life skills, socioeconomic challenges, and innovative teaching methods. The conversation covers the future of education, the role of teachers, and how AI can help unlock every child’s potential. Key Topics: McKenzie’s background and the founding of Two Hour Learning The two-hour learning model and its academic results Integrating life skills and AI in the classroom Personalized learning for diverse student needs Addressing socioeconomic barriers and global impact Innovative teaching methods and real-world examples The evolving role of teachers and the promise of AI in education Guest: McKenzie Price, Co-founder of Two Hour Learning, education innovator, and advocate for personalized, AI-powered learning. (00:00) - AIRT - McKenzie Price (06:31) - Meet McKenzie Price: Revolutionizing Education (08:50) - The Two-Hour Learning Model (10:33) - Life Skills and AI Integration (13:04) - Personalized Learning and Diverse Needs (15:07) - Addressing Socioeconomic Challenges (16:53) - Global Impact and Future Vision (22:17) - Innovative Teaching Methods (26:25) - The Role of AI in Education (29:51) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones interviews Brent Zirkel, an elementary principal at Mary Welsh Elementary in Williamsburg, Iowa. They discuss how Brent is utilizing AI to create curriculum, making learning more engaging and transparent for both students and parents. Brent shares his experiences, challenges, and successes in integrating AI with education, including building websites, creating learning activities, and more. They also explore the importance of localized curriculum and the role of educators in the age of AI. Importance of curriculum being transparent Making sure parents know exactly what we are teaching. Web sites for classroom. If you put yourself out there in the public, it motivates you to create more and better things. https://Raidersocialstudies.com AI makes it easier to organize your thoughts and put it in a systemic way. 80/20 in work usage. Middle East Unit Gives kids deeper ways to understand what is going on in the world. Not getting kids to understand facts and dates. Helping kids understand and perceive the world and make judgments. American values and patriotism are very important to our community. When you arm teachers with good curriculum you can have good discussions. Greater freedom in the discussion point because it is a discussion, not a “lesson”. Layering with AI - Using multiple technologies that wouldn’t be possible with just one AI. AI Tools used: Suno (music), ChatGPT (art & more), MagicSchool (make it relevant), SchoolAI, assessments AI Tools are thought partners. How to be a transformative principal? Good Better Best, Never Let it rest till your good is better and your better is your best. About Brent Zirkel: Brent Zirkel is currently the Elementary Principal at Mary Welsh Elementary in Williamsburg, Iowa, a school of about 650 students. He also serves as the district ELL Director, Migratory Education Program Director, and Preschool Program Director. Brent has previously served as the Associate Principal at Williamsburg Jr/Sr. High School (7-12) and Fort Madison Middle School (4-8). Brent taught Spanish at Fort Madison High School for 12 years where he was honored for 5 consecutive years with the Terry Branstad Inspiring Teacher Award for serving as a motivational force to some of Iowa’s top-performing high school students. He has a BA in Geography and Spanish Education, an MS in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Bilingual Education (ELL), and is certified as a Pre-K-12 Administrator and Special Education Supervisor. Brent is also a co-founder of the Test Kitchen Educational Foundation : a non-profit organization that creates innovative after-school programming for rural communities in Iowa by getting youth excited about learning through engagement in academics, culinary arts, and valuable life skills. Brent is married to Michelle, a K-6 Media Teacher, and has two children, Brevin (16) and Bram (10). Brent enjoys spending time with his family. He is an avid fan of Survivor, the TV show, and is a true believer in progress through struggle. Brent sees education as the greatest opportunity to build a better tomorrow by positively impacting the lives of his students today. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones welcomes Adam Geller, the founder and CEO of Edthena. They discuss the new Observation Copilot tool, designed to streamline principals' feedback processes for teachers, and delve into the challenges and solutions regarding teacher observations. Adam shares insights on how this innovative tool bridges the gap, saving valuable time for principals while maintaining meaningful and timely feedback for teachers. Observation copilot. Streamlining feedback to teachers Where are your pain points in observing teachers. Making sure chickenscratch notes turn into valuable prose and you can generate valuable ideas. Quick turnaround time - Observe today and get feedback today. How is streamlining the observation process transformative Human powered notes from the principal. Focus is on reorganizing, not on filling in blanks. Computer’s job is to show the evidence that a principal inputs. System to help a principal make a first draft. This service is free for anyone to use spring 2025. observationcopilot.com free for spring 2025 We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Eli Davis welcomes his wife, Dr. Teaira McMurtry, to discuss the impact and use of artificial intelligence in education, personal life, and beyond. They delve into personal stories, professional insights, and practical advice for using AI tools effectively. The conversation covers AI's role in enhancing productivity, ethical considerations, and tips for beginners on how to get started with AI. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Dr. Annette Teasdell, a nationally recognized scholar of urban education and an acclaimed author. Dr. Teasdell shares her journey, experiences, and insights on dyslexia, the transformative power of education, and the use of AI technologies to support students. The conversation delves into the significance of representation in education, the impact of dyslexia on different populations, especially African Americans, and the essential tools and strategies to help students overcome learning challenges. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis welcomes Delquan Dorsey. They delve into their professional journeys, particularly focusing on Delquan's role in Jefferson County Public Schools, where he works on diversity, equity, and poverty initiatives. The conversation transitions to community development efforts, highlighting the importance of digital access and the challenges posed by the digital divide. The second part of the episode centers on the impact of AI on modern society and its potential to bridge or widen the technological gap. Eli and Delquan explore the future of AI in education, emphasizing the need for AI literacy and critical thinking to navigate the evolving job market. They reflect on the importance of using their knowledge to support community growth. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Eli Davis welcomes his longtime friend Dr. Marlena Ward Dodds. They explore artificial intelligence, particularly its impact on education and inclusivity, the challenges of online learning, and the digital divide. Dr. Dodds shares her insights and experiences with AI, both in higher education and in the broader context of learning and development. They also discuss the ethical implications and biases in AI, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and equitable access to technology. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this first episode of 'Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk,' host Jethro D. Jones introduces Eli Davis, an educator and AI enthusiast, who will be taking over the podcast. The episode delves into the transformative power of AI in education, discussing personal stories and the potential of AI to empower educators and students. Eli shares insights on how AI can act as a tool for organization and creativity, and highlights upcoming guests and topics. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of A Vision for Learning, host Jethro Jones interviews Erik Francis, an expert in educational leadership and the creator of Maverik Education AI. Francis discusses the role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and critical thinking. Key points include: AI's Limitations: ChatGPT and other AI tools can sometimes produce inaccurate information due to the nature of their sourcing and synthesis processes. Depth of Knowledge (DOK): Francis highlights the need for students to deeply understand their learning, moving beyond surface-level comprehension. He outlines how different levels of DOK correspond to various question types (e.g., "whether" questions indicate DOK 1, while "how" questions indicate DOK 2). AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement: Francis argues that AI should be used as a stimulus for learning, not a source of definitive answers. It can offer suggestions, but educators and students must ultimately use their own judgment and critical thinking skills. The Importance of Authenticity: Francis believes that the future of AI in education lies in authenticity. Educators and students should "be the brain" and use AI as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, their own thinking and decision-making processes. Misinterpretation about DOK and We don’t know the source that chatGPT Is using. OpenAI synthesizing all those hits in Google that gives back information that is not accurate. How deeply do students have to comprehend their learning? You can’t just rely on a calculator. The technology doesn’t make things less complex, it makes it easier to do that work. There are people who are going to say, “It’s good enough.” Circle the verbs and underline the standards. Assessing on skills and stuff (old way) vs context (new way) Whether - DOK 1 How - DOK 2 Supports - DOK 3 Two or more - DOK 4 “Worksheets don’t grow dendrites” - Marcia Tate Created this to help teachers expand their instructional talent. AI is a stimulus, not a source. Suggestions, not decisions. Teaching is not just a science, it’s an art. Rogers’ diffusion of innovation . How do we know that our AI stuff is actually good? The Future of AI is authenticity. “Be the brain and make the impact.” About Erik Francis: Erik Francis specializes in providing guidance, support and training to academic leaders and classroom teachers on how to develop rigorous learning environments and deliver engaging educational experiences that engage and encourage students to demonstrate different levels of thinking and understand and use their Depth of Knowledge (DOK) through inquiry and by questioning with good questions. He created Maverik Education AI . We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Today was office hours for AI, which I do every month . Join me! Kathryn asked a great question about how to adjust her bell schedule using AI. This is the ChatGPT Conversation about Polson Middle School And this is the finalized schedule we came up with for Polson Middle School . We took her schedules from this page . We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of Vision for Learning, host Jethro Jones talks with Tim Desmond, a seasoned educator, entrepreneur, and writer with over 25 years of experience in educational innovation. Tim is the founder of New Educator AI, a platform aimed at preparing educational leaders for the challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI in education. The conversation delves into the evolution of AI technology, its impact on the educational landscape, and strategies for incorporating AI effectively in teaching and learning. They discuss the importance of directing AI creatively to generate engaging content, the potential of AI to democratize education, and the short-term challenges and long-term benefits of integrating AI into educational practices. Tim underscores the importance of active involvement and adaptability in navigating the AI era in education, while also highlighting the role of AI in enhancing personalized learning and the need for a paradigm shift in our approach to using AI tools. The cycle of technology and education How AI is going to affect education. Push-button creativity Becoming a director of AI Learning growing and getting better all the time. Pre prompt with my own writing. Custom pre-prompt for each prompt. Instead of your first prompt asking chatGPT to do something, ask what it needs to accomplish the task needing to be done. Aspects of teaching that will disappear in the long term. About Tim Desmond Tim Desmond is a career educator and entrepreneur with more than 25 years experience innovating in education. He is the owner of Thorn Publishing LLC and the founder of New Educator AI. New Educator AI is dedicated to preparing educational leaders for the AI era, ensuring future generations are adept in using AI safely and responsibly. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode we talk about an AI enhanced classroom. Using AI as a coplanner Suggestions on activities you could do. The AI is really trying to make you happy. How to iterate to get the AI to do the things you want it to. Whether we need prompting skills today or not? The power of collaborating. Watching prompt engineers do their work It’s very natural language, rather than a strict programming language. Diffit and SchoolAI are great AI solutions out there. Laurisa Black About Bonnie Nieves Bonnie Nieves has an M.Ed. in Curriculum, Instruction & Educational Leadership. She is a high school teacher in Massachusetts, a science and edtech consultant, presenter, and author. Bonnie is the founder of Educate On Purpose coaching where she provides online courses and virtual and in-person professional development training for schools and individuals. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this discussion, Jethro and Damon dive into the use of progressive web apps (PWAs) and local hosting of educational tools to create safer and more controlled learning environments. They touch upon their personal experiences with AI, the benefits and functionalities of PWAs, and specifically discuss a tool called Audio Pen AI. Further, they explore the concept of hosting educational chats and software locally, using examples like Campfire by 37 Signals, to prevent unnecessary exposure to the internet for students. The conversation also covers the potential for schools to adopt locally hosted software for educational purposes, ensuring a safer, more reliable, and financially sensible approach to student technology usage. 01:02 The Future of Software Development 02:31 Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) 05:20 Localized Educational Tools 05:45 Creating a Safe Digital Environment for Students 08:33 The Potential of Local Networks in Schools 24:45 Educational Software and Data Privacy We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

This simulcast episode of Transformative Principal and A Vision for Learning features Ryan Palmbaum, founder and CEO of Dabbl Discovery, which is an educational platform offering bite-sized video learning aimed at helping people explore new interests and career paths through content created by experts across various industries. Ryan, an ex-collegiate and professional soccer player who lived in over ten countries before turning 20, discusses the importance of broad learning and not solely specializing in one area. He emphasizes the value of becoming a 'jack of all trades' to connect disparate industries and opportunities. The platform prioritizes verified, quality content from educators and experts, employing a vetting process for creators. Ryan also outlines how Dabbl boosts the learning experience through an adaptive algorithm and gamification, distinguishing it from other social media platforms by providing a more fulfilling and educational consumption experience. The conversation touches upon the broader future of learning, envisioning a pivot towards more specialized, less time-consuming learning paths and the importance of exploring a wide range of career opportunities at an early age. Overall, the discussion underscores personal responsibility in learning and the potential of platforms like Dabble Discovery to transform how individuals explore and engage with educational content. 00:45 Meet Ryan: From Soccer Player to EdTech Innovator 03:52 The Philosophy Behind Dabbl Discovery 05:33 The Importance of Micro Learning and Expert Content 07:27 Personalizing Learning with Dabbl Discovery 10:51 Keeping Learning Engaging and Fun 12:11 Comparing Dabbl to Other Platforms and the Future of Learning 16:32 Ryan's Vision for the Future of Learning and Closing Thoughts We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro interviews Lauren Owens and they discuss her journey from teaching Spanish and student leadership to her current role as the executive Director of Technology at Agua Fria, where she has played a significant role in integrating artificial intelligence into schools. Lauren shares her insights on the indispensability of merging technology with curriculum and the importance of AI literacy in education. She stresses that AI has been part of educational systems for decades and highlights the necessity for creating frameworks like the AI care model (clarity, accuracy, relevance, ethics) and the stoplight system (red, yellow, green) to guide safe and effective AI use among educators and students. Furthermore, Lauren talks about the efforts to prepare students for the workforce through academy models and project-based learning, emphasizing digital mindfulness. She also discusses the challenges and learning experiences encountered in promoting AI integration within school systems, suggesting that broader inclusion and engagement could enhance these initiatives. 00:32 Key Takeaways from the Conversation on AI in Education 02:00 The Importance of AI Literacy in Education 03:28 Challenges and Strategies in Implementing AI in Schools 08:30 Creating a Framework for AI Literacy Among Teachers 14:54 Launching AI Literacy for Students: Plans and Expectations 19:36 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Steps We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

This episode of 'A Vision for Learning' features a discussion with Aaron Makelky, a high school social studies teacher and entrepreneur from Casper, Wyoming, about the future of learning and the integration of artificial intelligence into education. Aaron shares insights from his experiments with using ChatGPT in classroom assignments, emphasizing the role of AI in automating tedious tasks and allowing teachers and students to focus on deeper learning. He advocates for a shift from traditional teaching methods to incorporating AI tools to prepare students for their future careers. The episode also touches on the potential of teachers leveraging their extensive networks for professional growth and the importance of educators embracing new technologies as experiments to enhance the learning experience. 00:23 Introducing Aaron Makelky: A Teacher's Journey into AI and Entrepreneurship 02:11 Aaron's Entrepreneurial Shift and the Value of Time 06:00 Leveraging AI in Education: Aaron's Experiments and Insights 17:43 The Future of Education: Embracing AI and Beyond 32:58 Connecting with Aaron McKey and Final Thoughts Every habit is a vote for the future person Our web of networks and how that Going to use AI to do everything in class. Who can do the work better? Garbage in, Garbage out. Within a couple weeks, students had seen it. Can I do it, too? What is the purpose of that assignment? What real learning do you want your students to experience? Teachers had their world blown Is the learning to go to the library and research? Or is the learning to learn how to research? Beyond the curriculum, so many organic skills. Leveling text is super simple, now. Students can take control of their own learning The future of education: rowing a rowboat and getting passed by a jetboat. Chasing things that have always been a problem and so focused on chasing those little things. Kids love it when you walk in and say “do you want to try something new today?” How do you turn something that is so slow? How many schools have policies for staff and students around AI? Education is set up on different incentives. There is something outside of the snowglobe. Within the ecosystem of public ed, it’s not going to happen. The best people that teach these things in the new world are those that teach new and different things around Experimentation as learning. Movement snacks It’s already an experimentation “Preparing all students for their next steps” Advice for someone getting pushback. Unless you are preparing your students to be factory workers, you’ve got to do something different. Teachers are afraid to take risks to take advantage of it. Principals are too busy with other tasks to try new things. Allow students to lead. AI in Schools, lack of policies, experimenting with teaching students to use AI, lessons learned. A vision for the future of education **About Aaron Makelky** Aaron Makelky, a husband, father of three, leader, and teacher, holds a successful career in public education and coaching. Based in Casper, Wyoming, he currently teaches high school social studies and embarked on a business venture in December of 2023. In his newfound entrepreneurial pursuit, he has immersed himself into the world of consulting and online business, delving into the Vision Pursue's Performance Mindset for athletes and coaches. Aaron relishes the opportunity to explore technology, aiding his students in harnessing its potential. In the spring of 2023, he utilized Chat GPT in his own class assignments to gain a thorough understanding of its applications. He encourages his students to leverage writing tutors and custom chatbots, which he has been experimenting with since the fall of 2023. Aaron actively crowdsources his teaching methods from his students, integrating hands-on learning strategies and simulations, along with Spotify playlists for most of his lessons. He recognizes the crucial role of preparing students for their futures, acknowledging the need for transformation within the public education system. Website: www.aaronmakelky.com LinkedTree: www.linktr.ee/aaronmakelky We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by tea

In this episode of A Vision for Learning, host Jethro Jones invites AI literacy consultant, educator, and academic researcher, Nick Potkalitsky. They discuss the significant role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the current and future education system. They explore the importance of building trust and transparency with students while integrating AI into learning practices. Nick shares insights into his teaching methodology, emphasizing that the AI tool works best at the beginning and end of the writing phase. However, he underlines the importance of ensuring AI does not replace critical thinking or become a helpline to avoid hard work but remains a useful tool that enhances learning. They also discuss the positives and pitfalls of plagiarism in the AI era and the ethical implications of AI use in both student learning and teacher resources creation. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation 00:55 The Role of AI in Education 02:11 Addressing Plagiarism in the Age of AI 05:07 The Impact of AI on Teaching and Learning 15:08 The Changing Landscape of Writing with AI 19:00 The Future of AI in Education Maintain the human connection first and foremost. AI detectors are not that good. Detectors introduce a surveillance culture into our classrooms. AI Detectors destroy trust Don’t have the full impact of rolling out AI tools into writing practices? Hesitant to go all-in, but also interested in doing some things with AI. Generating ideas ex-nihilo We need to do more to prod students because of the pandemic Not having the stamina to do things from scratch and then having technology that can do it effortlessly. One method is to ignore the AI Tools. One method is to adopt the AI Tools. One method is to adopt some AI Tools. The Other Wes Moore Giving kids specific prompts, brainstorming, etc. Using AI more socratically. Khanmigo asks more questions. Concentrated human space for drafting. Some commentary from AI It’s easy to get AI to do anything , but hard to get it to do one thing . Using AI as a finishing agent. Need to give AI systems the logical connections between my ideas. How using AI himself has helped him use it with his students. Using it to generate classroom materials. How you’ve used AI yourself. Audiopen.ai AI is becoming a prosthesis for learning. Skipping over the cognitive gains that come from the sustained critical engagement with the writing process. How to prevent AI from encroaching on cognitive gains. What outcomes do we want to see? Help teachers build up watchpoints or criteria to help them know what they should focus on. What criteria can we use to evaluate use? Power comes from engaging with the tools Training materials to use the products to see what is possible. My initial response to AI in winter and spring of 2023: Exploration of AI detection software, going so far as to securing quotes for large packages for my school My summer of study: a personal search for AI literacy My initial report of AI x Education published at AI Supremacy My late summer realization: AI detections are inaccurate, unreliable, inspire a surveillance culture My favorite post on the topic New research program: How does the integration and implementation of AI into today’s classroom impact students' acquisition of more traditional literacy and writing skills and competencies? In Sept, very little evidence to ground new practices Thus, experiments: very gradual, incremental A collective research project Writing as knowledge-generation The sentence as the locus of new or different thought generation My response My current thinking: AI allows students to generate both content-knowledge and skills-knowledge Students need to know how to write in order to prompt; writing doesn’t disappear in the AI landscape, it just takes on a different form Conceptualizing the AI-human workflow <a href="https://nickpotkali

In this episode of 'A Vision for Learning', host Jethro Jones interviews Jamie Donally, a technology enthusiast and education consultant, known for her work in instructional technology and staff development training particularly in the field of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in classrooms. Jamie began her career as a math teacher and moved into instructional technology where she saw potential for immersive learning. Jamie provides insight into the practical applications of technology in education, emphasizing the importance of understanding objectives and goals before deciding on the implementation of technology. She also discusses the significant aspect of collaboration across different departments in school and highlights the need to be cautious about the information shared on these platforms due to privacy concerns. In their discussion, two books authored by Jamie, exploring AR and VR implementation in classrooms are mentioned. In addition, Jamie recommends several useful resources for AR and VR in the classroom. The more I use it, the more I see I need it. Not everybody needs a vision pro in their classroom or a Quest. Practical use of the technology. Jumping in headfirst is not Jaime’s focus. How to avoid roadblocks! Haven’t created objectives or goals Start with the struggle - usually attributed back to the teacher. Where can we start to help them reach their goals? Nobody should be doing technology in a silo. Jaime’s two books: The Immersive Classroom: Create Customized Learning Experiences with AR/VR Learning Transported: Augmented, Virtual and Mixed Reality for All Classrooms Start with experiences, then start with creation. CoSpaces - kid-friendly 3d space creation - like roblox for AR/VR. Verizon Innovative Learning Platform About Jaime Donally Jaime Donally is a passionate technology enthusiast. She began her career as a math teacher and later moved into instructional technology. Her desire to build relationships has created opportunities to collaborate with students and educators around the world. She provides staff development and training on immersive technology as an edtech consultant, and her latest adventures include the launch of Global Maker Day and the #ARVRinEDU community. She’s also an author and speaker on the practical use of augmented reality and virtual reality in the classroom. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation 00:55 Discussion on Technology in Classrooms 01:52 Exploring Meta Glasses and its Applications 06:22 The Future of AR and VR in Education 09:04 The Role of AI in Personalized Learning 09:55 The Risks and Challenges of Technology in Education 12:00 The Process of Evaluating Technology for Teaching 14:47 The Impact of Technology on Teaching Quality 18:14 Creating Customized Learning Experiences with AR and VR 21:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Welcome to A Vision for Learning on the BeatPodcast Network. I'm your host, Jethro Jones. Download the top 10 learning apps for Apple Vision Pro at avisionforlearning.com . Thanks for tuning in. Today, we discuss my experience one week after getting the Apple Vision Pro. A few things to note: First, it's not uncomfortable wearing it all day. Surprising, since I don't even like glasses. Second, my eyes get tired only when watching videos, like YouTube or movies. Another odd negative – sometimes it feels like suction cups on my eyes and leaves bags when I remove the headset. On a positive note, productivity is excellent. Using it for productivity is fantastic; having a Mac virtual display and connecting to my computer is game-changing. The "locking in" aspect also proves powerful, making it harder to be distracted. Some people complain about the guest mode. I never thought it would mean multiple users on the device. Would I like more users? Absolutely! It'd be great if my wife could switch profiles like on Apple TV and access her stuff with her iCloud account. But I never expected that, so guest mode seems nice to me. I can say, hey, no need to worry about someone using this. They can try it out, use the apps I provide, and move on. Resetting it after each use is a feature and, for schools, setting it up for each kid makes sense, giving them access while keeping it safe. This next piece is funny—the Apple Studio Display from a couple years ago seemed too expensive, but now I've paid $3,500 for another monitor. The Apple Vision Pro outshines it in many ways: multiple windows, immersive space—I love it. I look forward to multi-touch and using more than just my pointer finger. However, I've mis-tapped unintentionally since I don't usually think about finger placement on a screen. It's more about learning and understanding. While controllers have their benefits, not needing to suit up and lock in is great. An immersive environment with 10 fingers will be cool. Multi-touch is coming—allowing all 10 fingers to interact with screens will be nice when it arrives. Lastly, the app selection remains weak for now. But as immersive virtual reality develops, we'll see more apps designed specifically for it. In immersive iPad apps, it engulfs everything as expected. Developers must discern when this approach is suitable or not. Many apps in the app store don't make sense for the Vision Pro, except for some three-dimensional features. For instance, OmniPlan 4, a powerful project management app. I've used it before, but it didn't fit my thought process and wasn't beneficial for me. A multitude of apps in the store don't seem fitting for the Vision Pro and might not need to be one. Regarding Microsoft's involvement with Vision Pro apps, I'd say there isn't much novelty. Not really. There's not. Something like Node, for example, is an excellent idea for an Apple Vision Pro app because, in theory, if it becomes immersive, your line map can fill up your entire space, which could be cool. Sadly, that's not what they've done. They've just made it a window with Vision Pro elements. I think they'll likely adapt and change it to fill the entire area. But do you want that immersive or access other windows simultaneously? These questions need answers. Another thing about apps, especially iPad apps unoptimized for Vision Pro, is that tap targets don't always work the same. You can't always get reactions, like tapping not working all the time. It can be frustrating. But again, this takes time to happen, and we're waiting. For example, here's a great app designed for the Apple Vision Pro: timer Pomodoro. It puts a timer in your physical space and counts down without taking up room. You can move it behind you to check the time left. That app is cool. There are apps that make sense and are better in this setting than others. One tool I like is Crouton—an app I use weekly to plan meals and use recipes. It's fantastic in this app because it looks nice. Is it necessarily better in the Vision Pro than other things? Not really, but there are nicely done features I enjoy. Again, do I want that one to be immersive? No, better as a window. Deciding which apps are immersive and which aren't is essential. I believe the screen size naturally limits what we can do. I'm quite interested in this. After a week, I'm enjoying it and think it's cool. Excited to see the creativity people bring to this platform. If you want to know about cool apps I've found, go to a vision for learning.com and enter your email at the bottom. I'll send you the best education apps right now, keeping the list updated. By doing that, you'll also be notified when new podcasts are released. Some of these apps are iPad apps not yet optimized, but maybe they will be soon. If you enjoy this, take a moment to open <

Welcome to A Vision for Learning with your host, Jethro Jones. Follow me on social media @jethrojones . Today's question: Should I buy this for use in school? Can it be a tool in school? Is it too costly? Should every student have one? Is it worth it? I've used it since its release last week. It's great for productivity , and some features are incredible, like reading. But let's discuss its use for school. Apple designed a few things from the start that matter. First, they created an easy-to-access guest mode as a default. It lets you share the device with others and decide if they can access all apps or only opened ones. You can also choose to mirror the display on another device, like a Mac computer or Apple TV. Another education tool is guided access, an accessibility feature that keeps the device in a specific app. It allows you to set up a passcode and restrict users to the chosen app, preventing them from accessing other apps. This can be useful in educational settings to focus students on the task at hand. So, should we use this device for school? Consider its features and weigh the benefits against the costs before making your decision. wants to escape, a separate passcode is needed, distinct from your optic ID. You can share it or keep it secret. If you want students to focus on one app, you can set that up. A challenge: once removed, you must recalibrate for each user. This could be time-consuming but also a learning opportunity. With fingers as input and eye tracking, there's no need for controllers. My oldest daughter with Down syndrome quickly figured it out. A side note: when using guest access and turning on mirroring, the tool to invoke mirroring is always visible and easy to tap accidentally. This can be frustrating for new users. Apple designed this device for people over 13, possibly due to its size. It doesn't fit smaller heads well. When my 12-year-old tried it, she had to hold it up to keep it on her face. and maintaining eye alignment proved challenging. However, placing a beanie on her head resolved the issue, allowing hands-free use and unobstructed IR blasters and cameras. Firstly, guest mode and guided access are crucial. Secondly, the device isn't designed for young children. Thirdly, while sturdy, it's also delicate. Kids can become immersed in the experience, making it nerve-wracking for parents. Exercise caution with children using the device. Apple recommends covering the glass front. With kids and glass being a risky combination, extreme caution is advised. Additionally, the screens viewed by users are rumored to cost a thousand dollars each. The band attaching to the headset detaches easily, so avoid carrying it by the strap. Instead, place your thumb on the nose area and two fingers on top when handling it. Regarding eye health concerns, an ophthalmologist will join me in a future discussion. The device has screens inches away from users' eyes, raising potential questions about long-term effects on vision. Away from my eyes for hours, I haven't experienced the same reaction as staring at my phone for lengthy periods. A couple of differences exist. Firstly, I sit up straighter. Secondly, I focus more on posture and positioning due to the large device on my head, ensuring it stays in place. A sudden movement made me feel discomfort in my neck and back, reminding me to be cautious about how I move. Regarding eye strain, I haven't felt the fatigue usually associated with computer screens or iPads. When I have an ophthalmologist on the show, I hope to gain insight into this phenomenon. Will VR cause similar eye strain? Research is needed to determine this. Interestingly, a company uses VR to treat lazy eye. Instead of wearing an eye patch, children can watch a show in VR goggles for an hour daily to address the issue. Now let's discuss cost. At $3,500, this device may seem expensive for children. Cheaper VR alternatives exist; however, one significant advantage is the Apple ecosystem of apps already available. Many iPad apps could likely be used similarly on the Apple Vision Pro. Ultimately, the real benefit will be apps designed specifically for this device. I'm eager to see what's available for the Apple Vision Pro. Vijay Ravindran discussed Floreo , utilizing virtual reality headsets to help those with autism interact better. These use cases are incredibly powerful as they address challenges in teaching and open doors for individuals with disabilities by custom designing experiences. If you're already using apps with your students, many will likely work with the Vision Pro right away. But should you get it for your school? That depends on factors like the age of your students, the