Beyond chatbots: vertical, contextual tools

Michael and Diane are joined by Laurence Holt to unpack the current landscape and future potential of AI in K–12 education. The discussion centers on the three main AI use cases emerging in schools: generating materials, providing feedback, and AI tutoring. The conversation explores the vital difference between feedback and grading, the importance of instructional context for effective AI tools, and the complex challenges in cultivating curiosity and self-efficacy in classrooms. The trio also delves into why AI tutoring isn’t yet transformative for most students, the limitations of current chatbots, and the need for school model redesigns and tools that support social learning and durable skills.

Episode transcript: