Maurie Beasley, an experienced educator and counselor, teams up with her husband Jim Beasley, a former engineer and CTO, to discuss their innovative approaches to K-12 education. They delve into their AI tool 'Agnes,' which boosts classroom learning on a budget. Maurie and Jim share practical advice for integrating AI and overcoming skepticism among educators, while emphasizing the need for equitable access to technology. Their insights into managing classroom tech and the evolving role of education policy offer a compelling look at the future of learning.
Jim and Maurie Beasley emphasize the importance of integrating affordable AI tools like 'Agnes' to enhance K-12 education.
The Beasleys highlight the necessity for effective communication to gain administrative support for adopting innovative AI technologies in schools.
Maurie stresses the need for equitable access to AI resources to prevent widening opportunity gaps, especially in rural education.
Deep dives
Background of the Guests & Their Passion for AI in Education
Jim and Maury Beasley, who have extensive experience in both technology and education, discuss their backgrounds and passion for integrating AI into K-12 education. Jim, an engineer with nearly 20 years in education, initially aimed to solve problems in various educational settings but found challenges persisting beyond his expectations. Maury transitioned into education after starting as a technology teacher and eventually held roles as a school counselor and principal. Together, they recognized the potential of AI early on and wrote a book on its impact in K-12 education while actively providing training to educators on integrating AI into their classrooms.
The Shift in Attitudes Toward AI Among Educators
The conversation highlights a notable shift among teachers regarding the use of AI tools in the classroom. More educators are becoming open to using AI to enhance lesson planning and engage students, especially those whose interest levels are often tied to social media and gaming. Although Jim began with enthusiasm for a classroom chatbot, Maury noted that teachers had many pressing issues, leading to a cautious approach toward AI. It appears that as skepticism wanes, teachers are starting to recognize how AI can alleviate common pain points within their educational practices.
Barriers to AI Integration in Education
Challenges remain in the broader adoption of AI amongst school administrators, often due to their limited understanding and focus on high-stakes testing. Jim points out that many administrators prioritize test scores and behavioral issues over exploring innovative technologies like AI. He recounts an instance where they demonstrated the potential of AI in improving efficiency, but the momentum faded due to competing administrative pressures. This illustrates the need for educators to effectively communicate the long-term benefits of AI to create administrative buy-in and overcome resistance.
AI Trailblazer Program and Cost Control in Education
The Beasleys have initiated an AI Trailblazer program to foster the integration of AI in teaching while controlling costs for their education district. By monitoring the performance of select teachers utilizing AI tools, they aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies in enhancing student engagement and improving test scores. Jim explains the innovative hybrid model for AI management that reduces dependency on expensive subscription services, allowing the district to control costs efficiently. This strategy not only helps sustain educational resources but also encourages more teachers to adopt AI tools in their classrooms.
Commitment to Ethical AI Adoption and Equity in Education
Maury discusses her role as the only representative for K-12 education in the Austin AI Alliance, emphasizing the ethical and fair distribution of AI resources in education. Recognizing the risks of widening the opportunity gap, she highlights the necessity of providing access to AI tools, especially for students in rural areas. With specific experiences from her own classroom, Maury illustrates the disparities that can arise when access to technology and resources is not equitable. The Alliance aims to push for policy changes that ensure all students, regardless of their background, benefit from the advancements in AI technology.
Episode 308: Jim & Maurie Beasley AI Insights from an Engineer-Educator Duo
In this exciting episode of My EdTech Life, we welcome Maurie and Jim Beasley, an incredible husband-and-wife team blazing trails in AI for K-12 education! Maurie, an experienced educator and counselor, and Jim, a former engineer turned CTO, share their journey of integrating AI tools into classrooms, balancing innovation with practicality, and bridging the digital divide for rural schools.
💡 What to Expect in This Episode:
How their AI-powered tool, "Agnes," is transforming classrooms on a budget.
Practical tips for introducing AI to skeptical educators and administrators.
The power of policy and why K-12 education must be included in the AI conversation.
Insights into their AI Trailblazer Program and how they measure its success.
A behind-the-scenes look at their podcast, AI in Action, and how they stay passionate about education innovation.
🎧 Whether you're a teacher, tech enthusiast, or district leader, you'll discover actionable ideas and inspiration to embrace AI while keeping it simple, effective, and impactful.
📢 Don't forget to subscribe! We're so close to reaching 1,000 followers on YouTube. Help us hit that milestone and continue spreading these knowledge-packed conversations.
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