As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded into daily life, computer science education must evolve to help students navigate and shape this new terrain. At the heart of this transformation is a powerful idea: keeping humans in the loop.

In this episode, Perry Shank, Senior Director of Research and Development at CodeVA, joins the Unpacking Education team to explore how computer science education is redefining itself in an AI-driven world. He shares his personal journey, touches upon the importance of understanding AI—not just as users but as informed creators and collaborators—and offers powerful insights around integrating AI meaningfully and ethically into the classroom.

Perry emphasizes that while AI tools can be powerful collaborators, they should never replace human reasoning, creativity, or ethical judgment. “We have to make sure students are not just asking for an output and running with it,” Perry says. “They need to balance machine reasoning with their own sense of judgment.”

This episode explores how educators can foster that balance by demystifying how AI works, spotlighting human decision-making in data and design, and engaging students in thoughtful use of these tools. From hands-on activities—like Google's Teachable Machine and micro:bit CreateAI—to building custom Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPTs) for critical conversation, Perry highlights the importance of curiosity, experience, and reflection. AI literacy must be as foundational as math, and it must center the learner as a thinking, ethical, and empowered human in the loop.

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